MYSTIC BLADE is a very low budget martial arts flick from Thailand, featuring as its leads a bunch of actors who were stunt men or bit players in the likes of ONG BAK and WARRIOR KING. And yet, despite the lo-fi feel, I found myself enjoying it, at least to a degree. Sure, the non-action bits require fast-forwarding because they're really predictable and not really worth bothering with, but the action does deliver at times.
The film is deeply unoriginal and seems to be a cross between ONG BAK and RAMBO in terms of stylistics, with a little Lone Wolf & Cub influence added to the mix. The protagonist is deeply uncharismatic and the most interesting performers are those in support, like GAME OF THRONES actor Conan Stevens and the giant Thai guy. However, the frequent action scenes, particularly in the second half, are quite tolerable, only occasionally spoilt by some silly wire work. Otherwise these actors do have good moves and the violence is quite satisfying.
The film is deeply unoriginal and seems to be a cross between ONG BAK and RAMBO in terms of stylistics, with a little Lone Wolf & Cub influence added to the mix. The protagonist is deeply uncharismatic and the most interesting performers are those in support, like GAME OF THRONES actor Conan Stevens and the giant Thai guy. However, the frequent action scenes, particularly in the second half, are quite tolerable, only occasionally spoilt by some silly wire work. Otherwise these actors do have good moves and the violence is quite satisfying.