Hark's main goal -- as he sees actors and props spinning through the air in dazzling action ballets -- is to keep us wondering, "How'd They Do That?"

Its real strengths are its choreography, its flashes of wit, and its all-round exuberance.

A witty, extravagantly picturesque homage to Sergio Leone.

Tsui Hark gives 'Once Upon a Time in China' a grand scope that belies its budget... but the film’s greatest special effect is its magnificent action choreography and the grace of Jet Li’s martial arts prowess.