You could've read by now that this marks Donnie Yen's return to contemporary action with most of the fighting sequences featuring mixed martial arts. I was surprised that it's rated as PG13 in our local cinemas. I would've expected an 18 rating by local standards but whatever gives, I guess.
Off we go with the plot: Yen plays the protagonist Chan Zi Long that had been in deep undercover for 8 years in one of Hong Kong's most ruthless triads. The film started off with him trying to rescue 3 of his underlings who had encroached into others' territories. Action kicks in immediately after that. Weary of his duties and concern for his mom's safety, he wanted out but his superior (Ronald Cheng) that sent him into undercover got him to do the job one last time - find out what his former gang member, Sunny (Andy On), was up to. Coincidentally, his merciless triad boss, Xiong (Colin Chou), wanted Zi Long to investigate if Sunny had betrayed him.
This brought Zi Long to China where he was partnered with tough Chinese lady cop Jing Fang (Jing Tian) who also appeared to be proficient in the mixed martial arts. They did not start off well but you can expect some attempted chemistry there. Just as Zi Long's undercover duties near the end, he was discovered and all hell broke lose. Sunny had brutally injured his mother and you can guess what the hero would do next.
Typical story of an undercover cop whom you'd expect his cover to be blown with necessary heroics at the end. 2/5
Acting is what you can expect in an action film, so don't go in hoping for best actor/actress material, though Yen is more animated here compared to his usual serious and broody characters whenever he's featured in the genre. Don't expect Infernal Affairs quality here. 2/5
Lots of action sequences with mixed martial arts at the center of attention and a quite well done car chase finale, though there's lack of originality. 3/5
Romance? I'm glad the filmmakers didn't bother too much on this part. Phew! 1/5
The film had some minor continuity issues and felt hurried in the later half but that wouldn't be much of a hindrance for action fans. If you admire Donnie Yen (I started following his movies after the Ip Man films and I'm curious how he'd perform in the upcoming Monkey King/God trilogy), this is a must see. 3/5
By the way, Wikipedia's got some info about the film's pre-production problems and if you're interested, you can check it out here.
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