Visual stunner lacks substance

Fans of comic-book-based The Storm Warriors have been waiting for more than a decade for the second chapter of the well-loved story, but they are likely to be disappointed.

The sequel is directed by the Pang Brothers, who are well known for their stunning CG effects. Most of the action scenes here have been beautifully filmed in slow-motion, meaning it takes a while for the swords actually make contact, but at least you won't suffer motion sickness.

Lord Godless (Simon Yam Tat-wah) wants to conquer China. Wind (Ekin Cheng Yi-kin) and Cloud (Aaron Kwok Fu-shing) try to stop him, but their powers aren't strong enough.

To become stronger, Wind takes on evil powers, while Cloud decides he can improve with more training. They both become stronger, but Wind succumbs to the dark powers, setting up the film's climax.

This may be an action film, but even so, there is too little dialogue, and what is spoken is often hilariously nonsensical. The two female leads, played by Tang Yan and Charlene Choi Cheuk-yin, are absolutely pointless.

Visually, the film is very impressive, as are the youthful faces and well-toned abs of the 40-something Cheng and Kwok. The ending is bizarre and sudden. It may hint at a third episode yet to come - hopefully it won't take another 10 years, or Wind and Cloud will be fighting with walking sticks instead of swords.