OUATIC2 is perfectly crafted sequel to the original movie. Where later instalments got a little too concerned with Lion dancing and pirate invasion, part 2 is a true companion piece to the first.

The turn of the (20th) century setting is integral to the plot and themes of the film. Wong Fei Hung’s friends are increasingly adapting to new Western influences, which bring medical and technological advances, along with conflict, danger and political intrigue. The first film introduced the camera to China, and this instalment begins with our hero’s first journey by train, as steam power is a new arrival. Wong Fei Hung may be the protagonist, but he still needs guidance from Aunt Yee, who insists that he be measured for a Western suit.

The first film saw the Manchurian leaders selling out the Chinese people and their land to various Western settlers. Wong Fei Hung represents the protection of traditional Chinese ways, but while trying to settle disputes through peaceful means whenever possible. This sequel brings an interesting twist. The White Lotus Cult may be fighting for the same thing as our hero, but their extremist methods are despicable – they will kill anyone who dares to even learn a foreign language, or owns a foreign invention.

This expansion of the first film is typical of the movie’s director, Tsui Hark. Never afraid of expanding upon his ideas, he even employs the talents of Yuen Wo Ping to direct the fights. While the fights are even more wire-assisted than the first movie, they are handled with flare and imagination, yet little regard for gravity. The most realistic fights are between Jet Li and Donnie Yen, particularly some of the pole fighting, which is exciting and fluid, often using long, continuous takes.

The cinematography, lighting and direction is beautiful, proving again that when at his best, Tsui Hark is leaps and bounds beyond many of his peers. He even manages to make the love story sub-plot between Wong Fei Hung and ‘Aunt’ Yee (Rosamund Kwan) a fascinating and endearing saga, rather than the tedious diversion that it could so easily have been.

ONCE UPON A TIME IN CHINA II is a fine martial arts film, and essential viewing for anyone who saw the first film. It is among Jet Li’s very finest work, and one which he arguably struggled to equal until the release of Fearless, some 12 years later.