The first thing that struck me about the film was the terrific photography. This is the best photographed martial arts film I've ever seen. The miniature ships and sets are so impressive as to be jaw-dropping. Alas, the story and editing are frequently confusing, the villains mostly cardboard and uninteresting, and there isn't a decent martial arts sequence in the first half. Fortunately, the second half of the film is MUCH better. Also, for once, AMERICANS were the villains; if for that reason alone, Americans should see this film. We need to be reminded that many times in our history we have NOT been the "good guys".
"Once Upon a Time in China" is a great near miss.
"Once Upon a Time in China" is a great near miss.