This is pretty familiar territory for Andy Lau by now. Charming skilled swordsman and romantic lead, playing opposite the lovely, husky-voiced Cec Cheung. There are enough thrills, stunts and predictable romantic twists in this one to hold interest. The settings, apparently filmed in northern China, are gorgeous to look at and things are colourful.

The acting is predictably hammy, given that New Year comedies always have tongue firmly planted in cheek. And, of course, there's the always-welcome appearances by Anthony Wong and Wong Yat Fei.

No classic, but worth one viewing.