Le Maître d'armes

Huo Yuanjia with his undeniably rich life story and teachings offer massive potential not just for filmmakers. So it is fairly surprising that the Chinese “wasted" all this potential in such a cliché-full and western-style movie, relying primarily on action scenes. Some of the fights are unarguably ingenious and hard-hitting (like really), but overall nothing miraculous occurs here (and things aren’t helped at all by the bothersome alternation of slow-motion and fast-motion sequences). However, without the fights this would have been simply a massive and rather boring stream of clichés - so thank god for the fight scenes. The only thing that catches the imagination here is the untraditional final duel between two honorable adversaries who hold each other in mutual respect - this is probably the only part of the movie that you would expect to see in a picture about the “founder of modern Wu Shu". Jet Li tries very hard in his role and, while in physical terms his performance is excellent, it seems that dramatical acting really isn’t his strong point. (31/08/2006)

A grandly conceived story about the fact that fighting is not always necessary, presented surprisingly with occasional hidden symbolism, an unexpected and powerful ending, and above all, excellent action by Jet Li. The story itself lacks anything purely original, but the brisk pace makes up for it. Despite the fact that the film itself lasts just over an hour and a half, a lot happens and the viewer doesn't have time to catch their breath. 85% (28/04/2007)

It's all about Chinese nationalism and will please all fans of action combat movies in kung-fu style. I'm really curious about what a true master of martial arts would say about this production. :-) Overall impression: 30%. (19/05/2011)

A wonderful movie. Fearless certainly has its flaws, but the life story of Huo Yuanjia is portrayed here in the beautiful old Chinese cinema style that I was raised on and that I love reliving. Unlike Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon or Hero, it shows the life of a real person from the real world - no jumping around in the trees or flying about. Plus, the story is underpinned with names such as Yuen Woo-Ping, Ronny Yu and last but not least, Jet Li, who was heard saying that Fearless would be his last purely Chinese, “Wushu" movie. That’s awful news, but I still hope that he will let himself be talked into making another someday. (26/06/2006)

A traditionally boring Eastern fable with characters as flat as Holland. The fights are gripping, intense, and surprisingly well-executed – that is, believable. The clashing of swords sounds sharp, authentic, all the same. Jet Li has great physical condition, and it is admirable how much strength he can generate despite his height. As a showcase of Eastern martial arts, it is relatively engaging and fast-paced. As a story, however, it is basically nonexistent. But some action sequences are head-scratching, if that was the intention, then everything is fine. (19/12/2008)