Fei (Andy Lau) is a swashbuckling fishing villager drawn intothe bloody world of feudal politics when he helps a worthy prince against his usurping brother. He develops the same love for spoiled but cute Princess Yueh (Anita Mui) as Hsien (Maggie Cheung), the prince's bodyguard, has for her liege. The movie balances swordplay, intrigue, and romance very well; but nearly everybody dies. Then, Fei wakes up from his dream, musing over the woes of the rich and privileged. Hai Wei the killer whale makes an appearance to almost save the day.

(3/4)



[Reviewed by Steve Spinali]