14 Blades

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[Maz]

Source: http://images.yule.tom.com/vw/174383-1.html

[Maz]

Source: http://images.yule.tom.com/vw/174383-1.html

[DiP]

http://www.donnieyen.com/films/2010_14blades.htm

[DiP]

http://www.donnieyen.com/films/2010_14blades.htm

[Maz]

BEIJING PREMIERE











http://ent.sina.com.cn/m/c/2010-01-26/17212856812.shtml

[Maz]

BEIJING PREMIERE











http://ent.sina.com.cn/m/c/2010-01-26/17212856812.shtml

[DiP]

Review of 14 BLADES

It's about time Donnie Yen made an impact yet again in the fantasy wuxia-pian genre, given the rather recent dismal films with Painted Skin (where he only had a supporting role), An Empress and the Warriors, and Tsui Hark's Seven Swords back in 2005. Most of us went ballistic with his more modern action roles ranging from SPL to Ip Man, and his 14 Blades character of Qing Long (Green Dragon, thanks to those mean looking tattoos adorned all over his upper torso) here looks quite set to become yet another memorable role similar to his morally ambiguous one in Bodyguards and Assassins.

Here, Yen's Qing Long is the General-in-chief bodyguard to, and assassin for a Ming Dynasty king, who had set up the Jin Yi Wei (the Mandarin title), or the Brocaded Robe Guards, a special army known for its dogmatic principles in fulfilling mission objectives, whose loyalty is to the king only, and are at his beck and call to do just about anything the king commands. That of course leaves room for evil eunuchs to manipulate, especially when they can get the king easily distracted with wine, song and plenty of nubile women.

The first few minutes of the film introduces us to the background of Qing Long and his army of bodyguards and assassins, the evil that lurks within the royal family and palace from eunuchs to an exiled prince (an extremely short cameo by Sammo Hung), and of course, the fabled 14 Blades. Unfortunately, we are told of the uniqueness and names of each blade, but never see all of them in action, coupled by the fact that they look quite generic. Only Qing Long is assigned this utility box containing the swords and lugs it everywhere ala El Mariachi's guitar case, and at his will can throw up the appropriate weapon to battle adversaries, including a set of grappling hooks!

Writer-director Daniel Lee managed to create a film consisting of a successful amalgamation of wuxia-pian elements, with iconic fight action sequences set in tea houses, desert duels, forest brawls with abandoned temples and exotic cities enhanced by CG to play host to a film complete with double crosses, a prized possession that everyone is after, and had time to sneak in unrequited romance. In some ways the film plays out like a Cowboy Western with its one man sheriff and an escort agency up against various bands of outlaws in endless desert filled land, with that theme of hope that they'll make it unscathed against changing odds, save the day and to ride off into the sunset with the damsel.

The story though gave way at the midway mark, where it clearly became nothing more than a stringing together of battles and one on one duels, which thankfully were still exciting to sit through, with none of the fast cut edits or crazy closeups that will make you cringe. With the introduction of Wu Chun as Judge, the leader of a brigade of bandits who has this cool boomerang double blade, and Kate Tsui in a role where she only grunts as loud as Maria Sharapova hitting a return volley, ample time got dedicated for one to mirror Qing Long's transformation and road to redemption, while the other, well, just serves to grunt a lot, in a get up that looks inspired by Medusa, and armed with a serpent sword-like-whip, and powers of CG stealth.

But underneath the fights, the flimsy storyline and gorgeous costumes, 14 Blades turns out to have an incredibly strong romance instead, with Vicky Zhao (her umpteenth period role straight) starring as Qiao Hua, daughter of the Justice Escort agency founder (played by veteran Wu Ma), enamored by the manliness of the legendary leader of the Jin Yi Wei, since she grew up on fairy tales and harboring the hopes that a fabled swordsman would one day save society from its evils. In a way her Qiao Hua exhibits the Stockholm Syndrome, being held captive against her wishes, but slowly being drawn romantically to her captive, even endangering herself (in a scene to provide comic relief) by willingly becoming his aide and pawn.

It's far from being the perfect film, especially with unbelievably incoherent flashbacks and the going overboard with explosions (of the RPG type), but Donnie Yen once again shows that when it comes to the fisticuffs, he still has a lot to offer, despite the story's potential that had it go off the blocks strongly, only to fizzle out before the end in a case of severe narrative burn-out.

http://twitchfilm.net/reviews/2010/01/review-of-14-blades.php

[DiP]

Review of 14 BLADES

It's about time Donnie Yen made an impact yet again in the fantasy wuxia-pian genre, given the rather recent dismal films with Painted Skin (where he only had a supporting role), An Empress and the Warriors, and Tsui Hark's Seven Swords back in 2005. Most of us went ballistic with his more modern action roles ranging from SPL to Ip Man, and his 14 Blades character of Qing Long (Green Dragon, thanks to those mean looking tattoos adorned all over his upper torso) here looks quite set to become yet another memorable role similar to his morally ambiguous one in Bodyguards and Assassins.

Here, Yen's Qing Long is the General-in-chief bodyguard to, and assassin for a Ming Dynasty king, who had set up the Jin Yi Wei (the Mandarin title), or the Brocaded Robe Guards, a special army known for its dogmatic principles in fulfilling mission objectives, whose loyalty is to the king only, and are at his beck and call to do just about anything the king commands. That of course leaves room for evil eunuchs to manipulate, especially when they can get the king easily distracted with wine, song and plenty of nubile women.

The first few minutes of the film introduces us to the background of Qing Long and his army of bodyguards and assassins, the evil that lurks within the royal family and palace from eunuchs to an exiled prince (an extremely short cameo by Sammo Hung), and of course, the fabled 14 Blades. Unfortunately, we are told of the uniqueness and names of each blade, but never see all of them in action, coupled by the fact that they look quite generic. Only Qing Long is assigned this utility box containing the swords and lugs it everywhere ala El Mariachi's guitar case, and at his will can throw up the appropriate weapon to battle adversaries, including a set of grappling hooks!

Writer-director Daniel Lee managed to create a film consisting of a successful amalgamation of wuxia-pian elements, with iconic fight action sequences set in tea houses, desert duels, forest brawls with abandoned temples and exotic cities enhanced by CG to play host to a film complete with double crosses, a prized possession that everyone is after, and had time to sneak in unrequited romance. In some ways the film plays out like a Cowboy Western with its one man sheriff and an escort agency up against various bands of outlaws in endless desert filled land, with that theme of hope that they'll make it unscathed against changing odds, save the day and to ride off into the sunset with the damsel.

The story though gave way at the midway mark, where it clearly became nothing more than a stringing together of battles and one on one duels, which thankfully were still exciting to sit through, with none of the fast cut edits or crazy closeups that will make you cringe. With the introduction of Wu Chun as Judge, the leader of a brigade of bandits who has this cool boomerang double blade, and Kate Tsui in a role where she only grunts as loud as Maria Sharapova hitting a return volley, ample time got dedicated for one to mirror Qing Long's transformation and road to redemption, while the other, well, just serves to grunt a lot, in a get up that looks inspired by Medusa, and armed with a serpent sword-like-whip, and powers of CG stealth.

But underneath the fights, the flimsy storyline and gorgeous costumes, 14 Blades turns out to have an incredibly strong romance instead, with Vicky Zhao (her umpteenth period role straight) starring as Qiao Hua, daughter of the Justice Escort agency founder (played by veteran Wu Ma), enamored by the manliness of the legendary leader of the Jin Yi Wei, since she grew up on fairy tales and harboring the hopes that a fabled swordsman would one day save society from its evils. In a way her Qiao Hua exhibits the Stockholm Syndrome, being held captive against her wishes, but slowly being drawn romantically to her captive, even endangering herself (in a scene to provide comic relief) by willingly becoming his aide and pawn.

It's far from being the perfect film, especially with unbelievably incoherent flashbacks and the going overboard with explosions (of the RPG type), but Donnie Yen once again shows that when it comes to the fisticuffs, he still has a lot to offer, despite the story's potential that had it go off the blocks strongly, only to fizzle out before the end in a case of severe narrative burn-out.

http://twitchfilm.net/reviews/2010/01/review-of-14-blades.php

[Elhcay]

Not sure if this has been mentioned. Chen Zhi Hui is playing one of the four main Imperial Guards - a silent killer.

[Elhcay]

Not sure if this has been mentioned. Chen Zhi Hui is playing one of the four main Imperial Guards - a silent killer.

[DiP]

Donnie Yen 14 Blades Interview: Looking Forward to Working with Tony Jaa

What makes Green Dragon in 14 Blades different?
Donnie Yen: The character Green Dragon is something I've never tried before, for this person is neither good nor evil. I have done two similar roles before, one was Once Upon a Time in China, but it wasn't fully fleshed out. Initially, I didn't have confidence to bring out something fresh in this character, but director Daniel Lee told me to approach it from a villainous angle, then I started getting a hang of it. Personally, I'm completely different from Green Dragon, so I find this character very novel, for it's the exact opposite of my real life.

Based on what you've said, it seems that you're spending more time on acting than action?
Donnie Yen: You can say that, I'm spending more "kungfu" on this area. I'm most satisfied with Bodyguards and Assassins, its emotional scenes are more intricate than Ip Man, and has more depth. At first, I was worried that I might not be able to handle the role as a gambler well, I was pondering if I should accept the film. Actually, my first offer was the beggar, but I insisted on turning it down, or I'd be the best fighter, nothing new. Subsequently, Peter Chan thought of giving me the role of the rickshaw puller, if I did that role, it would definitely be very different from what you saw. But, eventually, Peter Chan helped me rewrote this gambler character for me. My acting will be more mature, in particular, in Ip man 2 and Legend of Chen Zhen.

You've directed a few films before, would you consider pursuing this path?
Donnie Yen: I have certainly thought of directing, but not right now, for now, I'm focusing on raising my acting skills even farther. When I have no more drive as an actor, I'd stop acting and become a director, whether it's a film I'm in or direct, I hope to leave behind sweet memories.

Press conferences for 14 Blades and Yuen Wo Ping's True Legend are being held on the same day, the media will inevitably be comparing these two films.
Donnie Yen: I don't think 14 Blades' rival is True Legend, our opponents are all films released in the same period. Besides, 14 Blades and True Legend belong to different genre, one is wuxia, the other is kungfu, it's like comparing apples and oranges. It'd be more fitting to compare it with Ip Man 2 or Legend of Chen Zhen.

14 Blades is a film with excellent action, and its drama is pretty decent. Wuxia films have been around for decades, and have become part of many people's lives, and the audiences have certain demands. I have been filming for over 2 decades, encountering countless scenes, what I'm after nowadays is not outstanding action, for that is already a part of my film. I hope everyone would support our own Chinese films, can't let Avatar be the sole blockbuster.

Yuen Wo Ping was your mentor, what do you think of the two movies clashing in the theatres?
Donnie Yen: Without Yuen Wo Ping's induction, I wouldn't have entered the industry. It's been 27 years, when I was 19, Yuen Wo Ping brought me into this trade, but we went our own ways more than 10 years ago. I'm eternally grateful to and respectful of him. I would still support his films if there's a chance, and learn from him.

What are your plans for this year?
Donnie Yen: There are a few works in the pipeline, very tightly packed. In March, I'll be doing Guan Yun Chang, in summer, might be working with director Peter Chan again. There are many film offers towards the end of the year, but I haven't made up my mind, 7 to 8 scripts, it's impossible for me to do all of them, I'd choose 2, 3 that gives me ample room to develop.

Heard that you're collaborating with Tony Jaa and there would have a decisive showdown?
Donnie Yen: Indeed, there's such a plan, director Stanley Tong and Raymond Wong are helping me invite Tony Jaa, I hope they'll succeed, but can't divulge the details.

http://www.wu-jing.org/happenings/archives/773-Donnie-Yen-14-Blades-Interview-Looking-Forward-to-Working-with-Tony-Jaa.html

[DiP]

Donnie Yen 14 Blades Interview: Looking Forward to Working with Tony Jaa

What makes Green Dragon in 14 Blades different?
Donnie Yen: The character Green Dragon is something I've never tried before, for this person is neither good nor evil. I have done two similar roles before, one was Once Upon a Time in China, but it wasn't fully fleshed out. Initially, I didn't have confidence to bring out something fresh in this character, but director Daniel Lee told me to approach it from a villainous angle, then I started getting a hang of it. Personally, I'm completely different from Green Dragon, so I find this character very novel, for it's the exact opposite of my real life.

Based on what you've said, it seems that you're spending more time on acting than action?
Donnie Yen: You can say that, I'm spending more "kungfu" on this area. I'm most satisfied with Bodyguards and Assassins, its emotional scenes are more intricate than Ip Man, and has more depth. At first, I was worried that I might not be able to handle the role as a gambler well, I was pondering if I should accept the film. Actually, my first offer was the beggar, but I insisted on turning it down, or I'd be the best fighter, nothing new. Subsequently, Peter Chan thought of giving me the role of the rickshaw puller, if I did that role, it would definitely be very different from what you saw. But, eventually, Peter Chan helped me rewrote this gambler character for me. My acting will be more mature, in particular, in Ip man 2 and Legend of Chen Zhen.

You've directed a few films before, would you consider pursuing this path?
Donnie Yen: I have certainly thought of directing, but not right now, for now, I'm focusing on raising my acting skills even farther. When I have no more drive as an actor, I'd stop acting and become a director, whether it's a film I'm in or direct, I hope to leave behind sweet memories.

Press conferences for 14 Blades and Yuen Wo Ping's True Legend are being held on the same day, the media will inevitably be comparing these two films.
Donnie Yen: I don't think 14 Blades' rival is True Legend, our opponents are all films released in the same period. Besides, 14 Blades and True Legend belong to different genre, one is wuxia, the other is kungfu, it's like comparing apples and oranges. It'd be more fitting to compare it with Ip Man 2 or Legend of Chen Zhen.

14 Blades is a film with excellent action, and its drama is pretty decent. Wuxia films have been around for decades, and have become part of many people's lives, and the audiences have certain demands. I have been filming for over 2 decades, encountering countless scenes, what I'm after nowadays is not outstanding action, for that is already a part of my film. I hope everyone would support our own Chinese films, can't let Avatar be the sole blockbuster.

Yuen Wo Ping was your mentor, what do you think of the two movies clashing in the theatres?
Donnie Yen: Without Yuen Wo Ping's induction, I wouldn't have entered the industry. It's been 27 years, when I was 19, Yuen Wo Ping brought me into this trade, but we went our own ways more than 10 years ago. I'm eternally grateful to and respectful of him. I would still support his films if there's a chance, and learn from him.

What are your plans for this year?
Donnie Yen: There are a few works in the pipeline, very tightly packed. In March, I'll be doing Guan Yun Chang, in summer, might be working with director Peter Chan again. There are many film offers towards the end of the year, but I haven't made up my mind, 7 to 8 scripts, it's impossible for me to do all of them, I'd choose 2, 3 that gives me ample room to develop.

Heard that you're collaborating with Tony Jaa and there would have a decisive showdown?
Donnie Yen: Indeed, there's such a plan, director Stanley Tong and Raymond Wong are helping me invite Tony Jaa, I hope they'll succeed, but can't divulge the details.

http://www.wu-jing.org/happenings/archives/773-Donnie-Yen-14-Blades-Interview-Looking-Forward-to-Working-with-Tony-Jaa.html

[Retribution]

Can't let Avatar be the sole blockbuster.

    Donnie Yen is the man passively dissing Avatar

[Retribution]

Can't let Avatar be the sole blockbuster.

    Donnie Yen is the man passively dissing Avatar

[DiP]

14 BLADES (HK/China)

Genre: Martial Arts
Director: Daniel Lee
Cast: Donnie Yen, Zhao Wei, Qi Yuwu, Wu Chun, Kate Tsui, Sammo Hung, Damian Lau, Chen Guan Tai, Wu Ma, Law Kar Ying
RunTime: 1 hr 55 mins
Released By: GV & Mediacorp Raintree Pictures
Rating: PG (Some Violence)
Official Website: http://www.14blades.com/en.htm

Opening Day: 4 February 2010

Synopsis:

Trained in clandestine combat from childhood, the Jinyiwei were masters of the 14 Blades. Above the law and with a license to kill, they devoted their lives and lethal prowess to the service of the Emperor alone.

When the Imperial Court is taken over by evil eunuch JIA, the best of the Jinyiwei, QINGLONG is assigned to steal a list identifying those still loyal to the Emperor. Unbeknownst to Qinglong, the Jinyiwei have fallen under the control of Jia, and during the mission he’s betrayed and barely escapes with his life.

Now as the most wanted man in the land Qinglong must seek out and rally the loyalists to rise against Jia and restore the Emperor to power.

In his way are the deadliest assassins in the land, his former brethren, the Jinyiwei.

Movie Review:

There's a running gag in Moviexclusive that Director Daniel Lee isn't a very good story teller and there's a foolish reviewer who once gave Daniel Lee's previous film a 4 stars rating. While others don't share the same sentiments, I thought that even thought Daniel Lee previous film suffered from patchy story telling, he was effective in bringing out certain emotional resonance. However in 14 Blades, it was all about exotic locations, flashy costumes and characters designs with fancy weaponry but none of the emotion impacts that it was garnering for.

The bulk of 14 Blades took place in the desert area where the exotic Indian culture seems to be a prominent fixture. It provides a good excuse to dress good looking actors and actresses like Wu Chun and Zhao Wei up with Indian theme costumes. Those not in the modified Indian garb (Donnie Yen and Qi Yiwu) get fitted in funky imperial guards uniform that looks like an update from Three Kingdoms (Daniel Lee's previous film). The cast all looked specially good through the lens of 14 Blades' DOP. Donnie Yen and Wu Chun look great with their well tone body (specially Donnie Yen with his tattoo buff up chest ) and Vicky Zhao look so attractively luring in this that it made my friend add another one more star to his rating for this movie.

The 14 Blades weaponry comes in a box which brought back memories of those days of collecting Manhua (chinese comics) that comes wit their own various mini weapons collectible. With many compartments and devices, the 14 Blades and the various other fancy weaponry gadgets in this movie could easily be marketed as toy.

But what about the story and the fighting (since this is a movie starring Donnie Yen)?

This time round, Daniel Lee's uneven and inept story telling skills had once again rear it's ugly head. There were many moments that 14 Blades were trying to be engaging and emotional but there's a hollow lifeless ring to it. Characters were spouting emotional and gungho dialogues but it lacks a strong build up or performance to engage the viewers tear duct.

For example, Donnie Yen's Qinglong supposedly had it rough during his childhood training as the elite secret agents and the selection process had numb his humanity. Similar to the Spartan kids training program in 300, it was done in short flashback sequences but while one impress with it's violent imagery, 14 Blades left ones with a sense of indifference. The characters were badly constructed and superficially performed. Another example would be Qi Yiwu's performance as a duplicitous traitor of the Jinyiwei (the elite secret agents). It was inefficient, unmemorable and it felt like an unnecessary add on to the whole mix. A far cry compared to Jacky Cheung's performance as the Eunuch's lackey in Swordsman.

The story telling was another mess. For most part of the show, it wasn't clear what was Qinglong's mission after he been betrayed and wounded. It took about 3/4 of the movie before we were told of his grandplan to right the wrong and saving the day. It also didn't help when the movie forcefully insert emotional flashback moments into scenes which we could swear that there weren't time for. It just felt inept and desperately patchy.

Last but not least, the fight scenes. While there are moments in which Kate Tsui floats around in spectacular manner (aided by special effects) to illustrate her amazing fast kungfu, Donnie Yen lacks a capable opponent to do a proper choreographed fight scene with. As most of the actors in 14 Blades are without the kungfu background, the fight sequences had to be aided by fast editing, stunt double, unnatural wire works and special effects. It just felt like another tired messy choreographed that populated most Asian Kungfu flicks.

14 Blades had a little something for the masses. For fans of Wu Chun, Zhao Wei and Donnie Yen, they can have their filled of eye candy. For comics and toy collect or even those who are interested in weaponry, they might find pleasure in checking out the various fancy weapons in 14 Blades. But for those looking for a solid period martial arts film that comes with a memorable storyline, 14 Blades would have very little to offer.

Movie Rating: 2.5/5 (Attractive, exotic and fancy Blade but when it comes to story and character buildup, it was a pretty blunt Blade)

Review by Richard Lim Jr

http://moviexclusive.com/review/14blades/14blades.html

[DiP]

14 BLADES (HK/China)

Genre: Martial Arts
Director: Daniel Lee
Cast: Donnie Yen, Zhao Wei, Qi Yuwu, Wu Chun, Kate Tsui, Sammo Hung, Damian Lau, Chen Guan Tai, Wu Ma, Law Kar Ying
RunTime: 1 hr 55 mins
Released By: GV & Mediacorp Raintree Pictures
Rating: PG (Some Violence)
Official Website: http://www.14blades.com/en.htm

Opening Day: 4 February 2010

Synopsis:

Trained in clandestine combat from childhood, the Jinyiwei were masters of the 14 Blades. Above the law and with a license to kill, they devoted their lives and lethal prowess to the service of the Emperor alone.

When the Imperial Court is taken over by evil eunuch JIA, the best of the Jinyiwei, QINGLONG is assigned to steal a list identifying those still loyal to the Emperor. Unbeknownst to Qinglong, the Jinyiwei have fallen under the control of Jia, and during the mission he’s betrayed and barely escapes with his life.

Now as the most wanted man in the land Qinglong must seek out and rally the loyalists to rise against Jia and restore the Emperor to power.

In his way are the deadliest assassins in the land, his former brethren, the Jinyiwei.

Movie Review:

There's a running gag in Moviexclusive that Director Daniel Lee isn't a very good story teller and there's a foolish reviewer who once gave Daniel Lee's previous film a 4 stars rating. While others don't share the same sentiments, I thought that even thought Daniel Lee previous film suffered from patchy story telling, he was effective in bringing out certain emotional resonance. However in 14 Blades, it was all about exotic locations, flashy costumes and characters designs with fancy weaponry but none of the emotion impacts that it was garnering for.

The bulk of 14 Blades took place in the desert area where the exotic Indian culture seems to be a prominent fixture. It provides a good excuse to dress good looking actors and actresses like Wu Chun and Zhao Wei up with Indian theme costumes. Those not in the modified Indian garb (Donnie Yen and Qi Yiwu) get fitted in funky imperial guards uniform that looks like an update from Three Kingdoms (Daniel Lee's previous film). The cast all looked specially good through the lens of 14 Blades' DOP. Donnie Yen and Wu Chun look great with their well tone body (specially Donnie Yen with his tattoo buff up chest ) and Vicky Zhao look so attractively luring in this that it made my friend add another one more star to his rating for this movie.

The 14 Blades weaponry comes in a box which brought back memories of those days of collecting Manhua (chinese comics) that comes wit their own various mini weapons collectible. With many compartments and devices, the 14 Blades and the various other fancy weaponry gadgets in this movie could easily be marketed as toy.

But what about the story and the fighting (since this is a movie starring Donnie Yen)?

This time round, Daniel Lee's uneven and inept story telling skills had once again rear it's ugly head. There were many moments that 14 Blades were trying to be engaging and emotional but there's a hollow lifeless ring to it. Characters were spouting emotional and gungho dialogues but it lacks a strong build up or performance to engage the viewers tear duct.

For example, Donnie Yen's Qinglong supposedly had it rough during his childhood training as the elite secret agents and the selection process had numb his humanity. Similar to the Spartan kids training program in 300, it was done in short flashback sequences but while one impress with it's violent imagery, 14 Blades left ones with a sense of indifference. The characters were badly constructed and superficially performed. Another example would be Qi Yiwu's performance as a duplicitous traitor of the Jinyiwei (the elite secret agents). It was inefficient, unmemorable and it felt like an unnecessary add on to the whole mix. A far cry compared to Jacky Cheung's performance as the Eunuch's lackey in Swordsman.

The story telling was another mess. For most part of the show, it wasn't clear what was Qinglong's mission after he been betrayed and wounded. It took about 3/4 of the movie before we were told of his grandplan to right the wrong and saving the day. It also didn't help when the movie forcefully insert emotional flashback moments into scenes which we could swear that there weren't time for. It just felt inept and desperately patchy.

Last but not least, the fight scenes. While there are moments in which Kate Tsui floats around in spectacular manner (aided by special effects) to illustrate her amazing fast kungfu, Donnie Yen lacks a capable opponent to do a proper choreographed fight scene with. As most of the actors in 14 Blades are without the kungfu background, the fight sequences had to be aided by fast editing, stunt double, unnatural wire works and special effects. It just felt like another tired messy choreographed that populated most Asian Kungfu flicks.

14 Blades had a little something for the masses. For fans of Wu Chun, Zhao Wei and Donnie Yen, they can have their filled of eye candy. For comics and toy collect or even those who are interested in weaponry, they might find pleasure in checking out the various fancy weapons in 14 Blades. But for those looking for a solid period martial arts film that comes with a memorable storyline, 14 Blades would have very little to offer.

Movie Rating: 2.5/5 (Attractive, exotic and fancy Blade but when it comes to story and character buildup, it was a pretty blunt Blade)

Review by Richard Lim Jr

http://moviexclusive.com/review/14blades/14blades.html

[DiP]

14 Blades
Sharp as a knife

RATING: 3.5/5

SINGAPORE : Everyone knows that the ingredients in making the perfect wuxia movie for today's insatiable audiences is made up of three things: Impeccable fight scenes; a multi-faceted story that blends fantastical fiction with historical fact; and Donnie Yen.

Who else can better perform superhuman feats, get seriously injured and yet still fight till the end in a jiang hu (martial arts) world than the broody hot-bod stuntman-turned-actor? Cleverly, director Daniel Lee ("Three Kingdoms: Resurrection of the Dragon") enlists the help of Yen (fresh from his success with "Ip Man" and "Bodyguards And Assassins") with "14 Blades".

Set in Ming Dynasty China, it tells the story of the jingyi wei (literally meaning brocade-clad guard), the elite Imperial guards/assassins.

Recruited from the street and trained in clandestine combat, these guards devote their entire lives to the service of the Emperor.

Of course, there has to be an evil eunuch plotting to seize power. So, it's up to Imperial Guards Qing Long (Yen) and Xuanwu (Qi Yu Wu) to steal a list identifying people still loyal to the throne. But Qing Long is betrayed by Xuanwu and becomes a wanted man forced to fight his former comrades to protect the empire and restore the Emperor to power.

While this isn't Asia's answer to "The Bourne Identity", this actioner is a valiant effort. There is enough hard action, longing romance, silly humour and the obligatory life values and morality spiels to engage everyone across the board.

Yet, one would have hoped to see more of the titular weapon and its full use in action, seeing as we're told in detail at the start how special this tool is (eight blades for torture, five for killing and the last one reserved for suicide upon failure of a mission). But the disappointment of not seeing this fabled weapon and all its intricacies is more than made up for with the relentless and well-choreographed fight sequences in deserts, forests, temples and tea-houses.

Yen manages to make his fights look like a spirited walk in the park as he oozes masculinity and charisma. But his acting still leaves much to be desired, so Vicky Zhao (in yet another period role) amps up the emotion with more than just a "flower vase" thespian turn as feisty love interest Qiao Hua.

Pretty boy Wu Zun surprisingly shines as the leader of the bandits, holding his own with slick moves and a beguiling presence. The same however, cannot be said for Yu Wu. Although he tries courageously hard to play the villain, he fades into the background against his heavyweight counterparts.

It may not be the ultimate wuxia picture, with its occasional cheesy sentimental lapse and gaping plot holes, but "14 Blades" has enough sharp elements to keep fans and non-fans intrigued.

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/reviews/view/1034968/1/.html

[DiP]

14 Blades
Sharp as a knife

RATING: 3.5/5

SINGAPORE : Everyone knows that the ingredients in making the perfect wuxia movie for today's insatiable audiences is made up of three things: Impeccable fight scenes; a multi-faceted story that blends fantastical fiction with historical fact; and Donnie Yen.

Who else can better perform superhuman feats, get seriously injured and yet still fight till the end in a jiang hu (martial arts) world than the broody hot-bod stuntman-turned-actor? Cleverly, director Daniel Lee ("Three Kingdoms: Resurrection of the Dragon") enlists the help of Yen (fresh from his success with "Ip Man" and "Bodyguards And Assassins") with "14 Blades".

Set in Ming Dynasty China, it tells the story of the jingyi wei (literally meaning brocade-clad guard), the elite Imperial guards/assassins.

Recruited from the street and trained in clandestine combat, these guards devote their entire lives to the service of the Emperor.

Of course, there has to be an evil eunuch plotting to seize power. So, it's up to Imperial Guards Qing Long (Yen) and Xuanwu (Qi Yu Wu) to steal a list identifying people still loyal to the throne. But Qing Long is betrayed by Xuanwu and becomes a wanted man forced to fight his former comrades to protect the empire and restore the Emperor to power.

While this isn't Asia's answer to "The Bourne Identity", this actioner is a valiant effort. There is enough hard action, longing romance, silly humour and the obligatory life values and morality spiels to engage everyone across the board.

Yet, one would have hoped to see more of the titular weapon and its full use in action, seeing as we're told in detail at the start how special this tool is (eight blades for torture, five for killing and the last one reserved for suicide upon failure of a mission). But the disappointment of not seeing this fabled weapon and all its intricacies is more than made up for with the relentless and well-choreographed fight sequences in deserts, forests, temples and tea-houses.

Yen manages to make his fights look like a spirited walk in the park as he oozes masculinity and charisma. But his acting still leaves much to be desired, so Vicky Zhao (in yet another period role) amps up the emotion with more than just a "flower vase" thespian turn as feisty love interest Qiao Hua.

Pretty boy Wu Zun surprisingly shines as the leader of the bandits, holding his own with slick moves and a beguiling presence. The same however, cannot be said for Yu Wu. Although he tries courageously hard to play the villain, he fades into the background against his heavyweight counterparts.

It may not be the ultimate wuxia picture, with its occasional cheesy sentimental lapse and gaping plot holes, but "14 Blades" has enough sharp elements to keep fans and non-fans intrigued.

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/reviews/view/1034968/1/.html

[Maz]

http://ent.sina.com.cn/m/c/2010-02-04/00252867221.shtml
http://ent.sina.com.cn/r/m/2010-02-04/14232868012.shtml

[Maz]

http://ent.sina.com.cn/m/c/2010-02-04/00252867221.shtml
http://ent.sina.com.cn/r/m/2010-02-04/14232868012.shtml

[Maz]

DONNIE YEN IS HOOKED ON ROMANCE

February 3, 2010



14 BLADES (GUM YI WAI) will be released next week in Hong Kong. Donnie Yen Ching, Wu Chun, Kate Tsui Tsz Shan will attend while Vicki Zhao Wei will remain absent. Director Daniel Lee Yan Kong regretted that but still praised Zhao Wei's excellent acting in the film.

In the film Zhao Wei played a security company daughter who assisted in the escape of the Yen Chi Tan played guard. They even developed a romance. In the past Yen Chi Tan worked with Zhao Wei in PAINTED SKIN (WAT PEI) but did not have too many scenes together. With this reunion, Yen Chi Tan even joked that it was his first on screen romance. "This time I have to properly have a romance with her to make up for the PAINTED SKIN regret. I am very excited to be able to date Zhao Wei. On the set she taught me a lot about communicating with looks, which made future romantic scenes even easier. After making the romantic scenes I don't want to fight anymore!"

Zhao Wei said, "In the film I had to ride horses, but Big Brother Chi Tan assisted me from the back with the action scenes. So this time I am lucky enough to be in charge of romance with Big Brother Chi Tan! This film although is an action film, but the romantic scenes are more romantic than my past romantic films!"

http://hktopten.blogspot.com/2010/02/20100204-donnie-yen-is-hooked-on.html

[Maz]

DONNIE YEN IS HOOKED ON ROMANCE

February 3, 2010



14 BLADES (GUM YI WAI) will be released next week in Hong Kong. Donnie Yen Ching, Wu Chun, Kate Tsui Tsz Shan will attend while Vicki Zhao Wei will remain absent. Director Daniel Lee Yan Kong regretted that but still praised Zhao Wei's excellent acting in the film.

In the film Zhao Wei played a security company daughter who assisted in the escape of the Yen Chi Tan played guard. They even developed a romance. In the past Yen Chi Tan worked with Zhao Wei in PAINTED SKIN (WAT PEI) but did not have too many scenes together. With this reunion, Yen Chi Tan even joked that it was his first on screen romance. "This time I have to properly have a romance with her to make up for the PAINTED SKIN regret. I am very excited to be able to date Zhao Wei. On the set she taught me a lot about communicating with looks, which made future romantic scenes even easier. After making the romantic scenes I don't want to fight anymore!"

Zhao Wei said, "In the film I had to ride horses, but Big Brother Chi Tan assisted me from the back with the action scenes. So this time I am lucky enough to be in charge of romance with Big Brother Chi Tan! This film although is an action film, but the romantic scenes are more romantic than my past romantic films!"

http://hktopten.blogspot.com/2010/02/20100204-donnie-yen-is-hooked-on.html

[Elhcay]

Only the chief of the Imperial Guard, who gets the title Green Dragon, carries the 14 Blades, but most of them aren't shown at all, and whatever shown can't be compared to the uniqueness of Tsui Hark's imaginative Seven Swords. Story is light, entertaining, engaging enough, action in wuxiaesque manner is okay, but not on the par with the best from Donnie Yen. Most aren't particularly long, save for the f/x laden end fight. The forest fight is perhaps the best since Donnie Yen packs a lot of power in each of his punch in his unarmed fight(and it's the only scene where Donnie Yen is fighting a martial arts star). No MMA here, that the BTS footage shows. Donnie Yen's swordplay is very ferocious and intense but he didn't get a good opponent, like Xu Xiang Dong.

Sammo Hung's the exiled prince planning a revolt, but only works in the background in his brief appearances as Kate Tsui and Xu Xiang Dong do the dirty works for him. I'm not sure if the premise holds any water, since if Sammo Hung is planning a revolt, why doesn't he just gather his army and revolt, instead of conspiring with Eunuch Law Kar Ying to get the imperial seal so that he can forge a pass to enter the capital. Maybe his army is too weak? But whatever, it gets everything going.

By right, Xu Xiang Dong should get a fight against Donnie Yen as far as the set up goes, but instead, it's given to Wu Zun for whatever reasons. A wasted opportunity for Xu Xiang Dong but his opening moves are very impressive, but is killed in barely a minute and in a the most ignominious way...

While not dressed like Jack Sparrow, some of Donnie Yen repartee + moment of silences + the subtle head movements with Vicky Zhao has a certain Jack Sparrow smart-alecky feel to it. Their moments together are quite funny.

The soundtrack is very captivating and uses a good variety of ethnic instruments, and each main character gets a very fitting, unique theme.

[Elhcay]

Only the chief of the Imperial Guard, who gets the title Green Dragon, carries the 14 Blades, but most of them aren't shown at all, and whatever shown can't be compared to the uniqueness of Tsui Hark's imaginative Seven Swords. Story is light, entertaining, engaging enough, action in wuxiaesque manner is okay, but not on the par with the best from Donnie Yen. Most aren't particularly long, save for the f/x laden end fight. The forest fight is perhaps the best since Donnie Yen packs a lot of power in each of his punch in his unarmed fight(and it's the only scene where Donnie Yen is fighting a martial arts star). No MMA here, that the BTS footage shows. Donnie Yen's swordplay is very ferocious and intense but he didn't get a good opponent, like Xu Xiang Dong.

Sammo Hung's the exiled prince planning a revolt, but only works in the background in his brief appearances as Kate Tsui and Xu Xiang Dong do the dirty works for him. I'm not sure if the premise holds any water, since if Sammo Hung is planning a revolt, why doesn't he just gather his army and revolt, instead of conspiring with Eunuch Law Kar Ying to get the imperial seal so that he can forge a pass to enter the capital. Maybe his army is too weak? But whatever, it gets everything going.

By right, Xu Xiang Dong should get a fight against Donnie Yen as far as the set up goes, but instead, it's given to Wu Zun for whatever reasons. A wasted opportunity for Xu Xiang Dong but his opening moves are very impressive, but is killed in barely a minute and in a the most ignominious way...

While not dressed like Jack Sparrow, some of Donnie Yen repartee + moment of silences + the subtle head movements with Vicky Zhao has a certain Jack Sparrow smart-alecky feel to it. Their moments together are quite funny.

The soundtrack is very captivating and uses a good variety of ethnic instruments, and each main character gets a very fitting, unique theme.

[DiP]

How many fights are there in total?

[DiP]

How many fights are there in total?

[Maz]

14 Blades theme song, performed by Sa Dingding

[Maz]

14 Blades theme song, performed by Sa Dingding

[Elhcay]

14 Blades is doing pretty well in China, having made 57m yuan in the opening week. But competition is getting a lot stiffer this week.

How many fights are there in total?

Around 7 - 8 big fights, + a few smaller ones.

[Elhcay]

14 Blades is doing pretty well in China, having made 57m yuan in the opening week. But competition is getting a lot stiffer this week.

How many fights are there in total?

Around 7 - 8 big fights, + a few smaller ones.

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