Rating: ***
Review Date: 12/29/00
Cast: Ti Lung, Alexander Fu Sheng, Wang Lung Wei, Eddy Ko, cameos by
Dick Wei, Shih Szu
A solid kung fu actioner. Ti Lung was a member of a notorious band of killers known as "the eagles" until he grew tired of the constant killing and discovered human kindness, warmth, and love. Having betrayed his cruel master by showing feelings, he is now on the run and being hunted by his former brothers. Along the way he meets a stranger (charismatic Alexander Fu Sheng) and they eventually form an alliance to wipe out the entire eagle clan. But there's more to Fu Sheng than meets the eye, and although the plot twists at the end are predictable, they're still tense and effective. Vengeance and redemption always demand a heavy toll...
Full of kung fu goodness, the fighting scenes are energetic and well staged. Perhaps the best aspect is that each of the eagles are specialized in a particular weapon, which gives rise to some interesting combat sequences and ensures that each fight looks unique. Ti Lung and Fu Sheng perform well together and are both charismatic leads, so they're fun to watch. However, the biggest surprise came in the music department. The song that is played during the combat sequences is eerily reminiscent of John Williams' "Duel Of The Fates" from "The Phantom Menace" (1999). Very interesting...