SWORD MASTER is a 2016 remake from mainland China of a 1977 Shaw Brothers swordplay movie called DEATH DUEL. Derek Yee starred in the original movie and he directs this time around, with Tsui Hark on producer duties. When I saw that this movie was from the mainland my heart sank, because, sure enough, it's a CGI-dominated action flick in which every sword fight is accompanied by CGI swirls, heavy wirework, and even CGI horses and backgrounds on occasion. CGI is always best when used sparingly and they go way over the top here, as per usual.
Story-wise, it's an intriguing enough film, perhaps a little on the long side, but it keeps you watching. The actors aren't that interesting although Shaw star Norman Chu has a nice cameo. It does pick up for the climax with some cool bits involving the skull-masked henchmen, and like most Chinese action movies it was made in 3D. I haven't seen DEATH DUEL yet but I have a feeling it will be the superior film, as most originals are.
Story-wise, it's an intriguing enough film, perhaps a little on the long side, but it keeps you watching. The actors aren't that interesting although Shaw star Norman Chu has a nice cameo. It does pick up for the climax with some cool bits involving the skull-masked henchmen, and like most Chinese action movies it was made in 3D. I haven't seen DEATH DUEL yet but I have a feeling it will be the superior film, as most originals are.