Raised in the ways of the Shaolin monks from an early age, Junbao (Li) and Chin Bo (Chin) spend much of their young lives smothered by strict regime. However, when a run-in with an overbearing fellow pupil results in all out brawl at the Shaolin Temple, Chin Bo and Junbao are left disgraced and turned away by their master.
The two young men arent left adrift for too long however, and after meeting with the beautiful Siu Lin (Yeoh) and energetic Miss Li (Yeun); the pair find themselves embroiled in a rebellion against a villainous overlord. However, Chin Bos yearning for status and fortune drives him into the arms of the enemy, and soon the old friends are pitted against one another.
Tai Chi Master tells a pretty classic story, and thankfully doesnt get caught up in pretentions. Its a simple good versus evil affair, with modest dashes of betrayal, romance and comedy thrown in for good measure, leaving more than enough breathing room for plenty of unashamed, energetic action.
Its an exciting and entertaining experience. Elaborate and energetic brawls ignite pretty much everywhere, from back streets to bars. Every environment is fully destructible, with each object and every piece of debris ready to be used as an offensive weapon. Likewise, everybody it seems is up for a fight; regardless of age, shape or state of inebriation. And, like all the best martial arts films, everybody encountered proves themselves an expert combatant.
The fight scenes are unanimously great, in no small part thanks to the direction of the legendary Yeun-Woo Ping. Theres plenty of variety too, with each of the main players getting chance to show off their arse kicking skills in a succession of expertly choreographed and performed sequences.
More than most martial art films, Tai Chi Master throws a good fistful of comedy into the pot, but it seems suitably at home with the story and rarely proves distracting. Saying that, the English language dub is pretty horrific, and sticking with the subtitle option will ensure the best possible viewing experience.
It might be scraping 17 years in age (yep, Jet Li and Michelle Yeoh have been around that long), but the film itself looks great on DVD. The colours mightnt be as striking as they once were, but this transfer still offers sharp and crisp visuals that more than cater to the elaborate fight sequences and colourful set pieces.
Overall Verdict: A very satisfying slice of martial art cinema; this latest release of Tai Chi Master is a real treat and comes bundled with a healthy stock of extras.
Special Features:
Commentary
Interviews
The Birthplace of Tai Chi
Meditations on the Master
Twin Warriors
Trailer
Reviewer: David Steele