Code of the Assassins is a Visually Stunning Martial Arts Fantasy. A Look at Code of the Assassins, a martial arts film of Chinese origin hitting US Streaming services and for sale this month. Here is a synopsis and review of this Well Go USA Entertainment release.
SYNOPSIS:
After completing his training, an elite young assassin embarks on his first mission and is quickly ensnared in an intricate plot laid by powerful people pulling strings from the shadows. Upon failing to complete the assignment, he is forced to go on the run-from the government and rival assassin groups alike-as he seeks to unmask the players behind the conspiracy.
REVIEW:
While this film's storyline takes some complicated twists and has many characters to keep up with it still moves along at a steady pace. The series of exciting and varied fight sequences pay homage to the Kung Fu movies of the 1960's and 70's, while adding a modern feel.
Code of the Assassins is martial arts in the Chinese style. This is not a gritty, street fighting martial arts film in the fashion of many of the modern Korean action films. It is the high flying, weapons, and stunt based in the Chinese Kung Fu tradition.
The film is visually stunning. The special effects, the costumes, the cinematography, and settings are all a feast for the eyes. The stunt and fight choreography are thoughtful, action packed, and fun to watch.
The acting, from the large cast, is perfect for the material. They understand that the roles they are playing are larger than life, fantasy characters, and they play to those characteristics. There is a lot of betrayal, double-crossing, and temporary alliances.
The plot involves the quest to protect a coveted map of ancestral treasures that was the basis for murders and betrayals. Revenge is as prominent here as it is in any martial arts films of the past half century. While there are a lot of unexplained things here, and much that is confusing, it really doesn't matter. This is a martial arts film in the purest form-the story is collateral to the martial arts and the action.
If you like Chinese Kung Fu movies this is a must see.
