Tung Wai's "Extreme Challenge" is a textbook example of the lengths that Hong Kong filmmakers will go to for international video distribution. Featuring a bunch of no-names, "Extreme Challenge" is a relatively painless way to see a clichéd martial arts tournament, where the plot and characterizations get in the way of the fighting, which is the only reason to watch this flick. It doesn't even matter that English and Chinese are the main languages of the film. When compared to another pointless film, "The Avenging Fist," "Extreme Challenge" actually wins out, because it doesn't hide or cover up any of the martial arts, and it probably cost a lot less in production dollars.

The best of the martial arts was not hand-to-hand, but in the weapons area. The stereotypical roles were telegraphed throughout the film, so you can easily follow the plot regardless of where and when you tune in. Movies like "Extreme Challenge" are perfect for that direct-to-video flick you may want to rent out for a night's distraction.