Spoiler-Free Review
A Well Go USA Entertainment Release
Peace Film Production presents
BLADES OF THE GUARDIANS
Director: Yuen Woo-ping
Starring: Wu Jing, Nicholas Tse, Yu Shi, Chen Lijun, Zhang Jin, Tony Leung Ka-fai, and Jet Li.
2026 | 130 minutes | China | Mandarin with English Subtitles | Colour | Not Yet Rated
Blades of the Guardians (镖人) is an exciting new martial arts film inspired by the massively popular manga Biao Ren. Staying true to the spirit of its source material, the film embraces many of the manga’s most beloved elements, including its central characters, its traditional code of chivalry, and its surprisingly modern emotional themes. At the same time, it elevates the story into a cinematic spectacle, delivering intense, beautifully staged combat that feels both classic and refreshingly new.
A major reason Blades of the Guardians stands out is its director: the legendary Yuen Woo-ping, one of the most respected action choreographers and martial arts filmmakers in cinema history. Over decades, Yuen has helped shape some of the most iconic fight sequences ever put on screen, working on unforgettable films featuring stars like Donnie Yen (Iron Monkey, 1993), Jet Li (Tai Chi Master, 1993), and Michelle Yeoh (Wing Chun, 1994). With Blades of the Guardians, he brings that same mastery, blending experience, precision choreography, and creative flair into action scenes that feel both grounded and breathtaking.
The story follows Dao Ma (played by Jing Wu), known as the “second most wanted fugitive,” who is tasked with a mysterious and dangerous escort mission. Under the orders of his benefactor, the chief of the Mo family clan, Dao Ma must transport the “most wanted fugitive” to Chang’an, a journey filled with danger, betrayal, and unexpected alliances. Travelling alongside him is his young companion, Xiao Qi, whose presence adds heart and humanity to the brutal path ahead.
Along the way, Dao Ma encounters a growing cast of fighters and strangers pulled into the mission through chance meetings and violent confrontations. He is joined by Ayuya (Chen Lijun) and her aide Ani (Xiong Jinyi), along with other warriors who bring their own unique motivations, backgrounds, and combat styles. In true martial arts fashion, enemies can become allies, and alliances are often forged through shared survival. Each new character introduces a fresh energy to the story, making the film feel expansive and richly layered.
What makes Blades of the Guardians especially impressive is how it reinvigorates the martial arts genre while remaining deeply rooted in cultural tradition. Set against the harsh and stunning landscapes of the Chinese desert, the film carries an epic atmosphere that feels almost mythical. The desert setting becomes more than a backdrop; it’s a living part of the film’s tension, beauty, and survival-driven tone.
The action is not only stylish but physically convincing. The cast delivers performances filled with athletic realism, and their endurance is evident in every scene. From weapon combat and horseback riding to stunt falls and archery, often performed at high speeds, the choreography demands constant physical intensity. Yuen Woo-ping’s commitment to realism shines through, as he pushes the actors to maintain authenticity in their movement. To meet that standard, the cast underwent extensive training throughout production, continuing even as filming progressed.
Filming in extreme desert heat added another layer of difficulty, especially during combat sequences. But rather than weakening the production, those challenges seem to have strengthened it. The final result is a martial arts film that feels raw, immersive, and alive, one where every blow, leap, and clash of steel carries weight.
Visually, Blades of the Guardians is nothing short of majestic. The film finds a perfect balance between grounded physical combat and extraordinary cinematic techniques, including wirework that enhances the spectacle without sacrificing realism. The result is action that feels believable, yet still larger-than-life—exactly what fans of great martial arts cinema crave.
The film is also anchored by strong performances from its cast, who fully embody their characters. Each role feels purposeful, and every fighter brings their own distinct identity to the screen. That combination of physical credibility and emotional commitment gives the movie a rare depth, making it more than just a showcase of choreography.
Adding even more excitement is the film’s star-studded cast, featuring major names like Nicholas Tse (The Storm Warriors), Jing Wu (Wolf Warrior 1 & 2), Tony Leung Ka-fai (Hero), Xing Yu (Kung Fu Hustle), and the legendary Jet Li (Fist of Legend). Seeing these performers share the screen in unforgettable combat sequences is a major highlight, and one that martial arts fans won’t soon forget.
There is so much to admire in the production of Blades of the Guardians, and very little to dislike. For viewers who want an even deeper appreciation of the film’s characters and themes, becoming familiar with the original manga Biao Ren may enhance the experience, but it is absolutely not required. The film stands strongly on its own, delivering a thrilling and emotionally engaging story from beginning to end.
At 2 hours and 6 minutes, the runtime allows the story to unfold with scale and ambition, while still maintaining momentum through action and suspense. It’s the kind of film that reminds audiences why martial arts cinema remains one of the most exciting genres in the world.
Ultimately, Blades of the Guardians is one of the most impressive and best-crafted martial arts films in many years. With stunning visuals, expertly choreographed combat, and performances that elevate the material, it feels like an instant modern classic. For fans of Asian cinema, action filmmaking, or traditional wuxia storytelling, this is essential viewing.
Don’t miss BLADES OF THE GUARDIANS when it opens theatrically across the U.S. and Canada on February 17.
