Wong Jing takes bits and pieces from "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," "Raiders of the Lost Ark" and some martial arts mayhem from Jackie Chan movies to present "Magic Crystal." Wong Jing writes, direct and costars, as the comic relief, in this fine example of '80s Hong Kong action cinema. The plot may be an assemblage of other well-known ideas, but executed in the unique fast and furious style that defines Hong Kong cinema. The eponymous Andy Lau plays the Eagle Hunter, a good-guy mercenary for hire. He gets involved with some bad people like Richard Norton and is assisted by Cynthia Rothrock, during her heyday in Hong Kong action cinema.
The stunning action choreography by Tony Leung Siu Hung, performed by the cast and the amazing stunt team, will leave your mouth agape. Every member of the cast looked like worldbeaters. The choreography, accented by the editing of Lau Siu Gwong, was top notch. Although there is some silliness and some conventional narrative, "Magic Crystal" is fine fun with exciting action. The movie is a kind reminder of what Hong Kong cinema was like 20 years ago.
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