Romeo Must Die gives life to martial arts genre

Jet Li's latest film is out, and it is surprising audiences around the country.

Romeo Must Die is an interesting mix of action, comedy and drama-which is quite strange considering that a common aspect of Li films is "all action and no plot." But, as far as story goes, Romeo Must Die delivers adequately.

Han Sing (Li) is out to avenge the death of his brother and finds help in the strangest place - the daughter of his father's rival. The film is set in a city owned by two major families (one Chinese and one black), which are both vying for a very profitable new business venture.

The main plot of the movie is pretty basic, but it is built on enough characterization and plot to make it worthwhile.

Romeo Must Die should not be considered in the films of martial arts genre - this film includes more acting and a better storyline.

Another positive thing for the film is that Li and the filmmakers decided to avoid stereotypical happenstances and try some new ideas. The action scenes in the movie are very creative, though not all are realistic. However, what they lack in realism is made up for in comedy.

Slapstick humor is not a problem in the film, in scenes such as the black family's lackeys going up against Li in football.

Li has progressed in his films and it shows in Romeo Must Die. This movie is a must-see because it defies and breaks the norms of the "martial arts flick."