I think the fact that there are eleven reviews here (now twelve) in which no one gave a rating of less than 8 says it all. The diverse group that posts reviews here has never, to my recollection, been so much in agreement over a film.

This is Jet Li's masterpiece. I saw it in the week in which Peyton Manning finally made it to the Superbowl, and it strikes me as being the same for Jet Li as the Pats/Colts game was for Manning: a perfect example of the outstanding performance he can give; one that will silence his critics and satisfy his fans. And just as Manning didn't do it by himself, Jet Li is surrounded by outstanding efforts from his teammates, especially Yuen Wo-Ping.

Jet Li retired from making Wu Shu films after this one, and who can argue with the decision. This is his definitive statement of what Wu Shu is; there's no point in or need for another. And I don't think all the forces could come together again as well as they did in this one. Not that it's perfect, but the overall effect is extremely satisfying.

Great story; great fighting; great performance by Jet Li.