Zhong Hua Ying Xiong
1999 / 116m - Hong Kong
Action, Adventure
3.5*/5.0*
A Man Called Hero poster

Watches

May 02, 2013

3.5*/5.0*

Not bad, certainly considering the year it was produced. Well after the hay days of the 90s martial arts, but also well before a new batch of films would put Hong Kong action back on the map. A Man Called Hero isn't a perfect film, but it's a riskier project than expected and with Lau in the director's chair, the result offers simple but fun entertainment.

When Hero becomes the pupil of a famed sword master he couldn't be happier. When he comes home he finds his parents murdered in cold blood. After he avenges his parents, Hero feels devastated and moves to the USA. Sixteen years later his son wants to make up for lost time with his dad, and tries to seek him out.

The CG isn't the greatest and it's not the be t martial arts action you'll see in your life, but that's not what you should expect from a Lau film. A capable cast, slick pacing, and proper production values make this an enjoyable ride, showcasing his talent to adapt to whatever genre he is working in. Not the greatest, but this was a fun and amusing action filler.