Butterfly Sword (Special Edition)

Believe it or not -- this is a fantasy costume drama which actually has a complex plot, multi-layered meanings and ways of interpreting personal relations, quality dramatic acting (particularly from Michelle Yeoh and Tony Leung) and comical scenes AS WELL AS unbelievable visuals and action sequences.

The cinematography is rich, the pacing is quick...There's plenty for the eye to see and for the mind to absorb. In fact, almost too much the first time round; which is why you need to see it at least a second time to really appreciate it. Also, it may help to get a plot synopsis/summary (I would recommend Pete's review off the "Yes Madam" web site) to know what to watch for.

On the other hand, one could just look upon it as eye candy, give up trying to understand what is actually going on (a love square amidst schemes to become master of the martial arts world) and just prepare to be blown away on a purely visual basis...Although that would be only half the experience, it would still be enjoyable enough for many Hong Kong movie fans and fans-to-be (if you crave something very different from American movies, this is it!).

On a cautionary note: The action sequences feature "wire fu". This is NOT Jackie Chan -- not necessarily better or worse but definitely different...and actually way fantastically weirder (After this, "Supercop" is s-o tame!)!!! In fact, it might come closer to "Excalibur"...I KID YOU NOT.

Its got enough inventive and dizzy action scene choreography to keep a kung fu fan entertained. The characters work well and the story doesnt really let things drag. You cant ask for much more out of a kung fu movie. While it may not give viewers the same enthralling rush that Fist of Legend and Bride with White Hair did, it still is a slightly above average kung fu movie and worth watching.