And what with all the two central father figures here being portrayed as wimps and the mothers as aggressive kung fu experts, "Legend" may be the definitive Hong Kong martial arts feminist film. (It is supposedly one of the biggest hits in Hong Kong movie history.)

There's no question that an understanding of Chinese history would help in embracing the plot. And there are some things, which are apparently wrapped up in Chinese sensibility and humor, that simply don't translate very well to this culture. (The most prominent example comes early in the film, when Sai Yuk's mother has received a beating by her husband, and it is treated quite lightly.)

There is also a lot of very broad comedy, some of which is very funny . . . but I must confess that a fair amount went right past me. Toward the end, the film tends to bog down as it veers into melodrama.

But before that happens, there is plenty of action, with an amazing amount of eye-popping stunt work, so the audience doesn't have enough time to dwell on its weaknesses.

And yes, folks, there is a "Legend of Fong Sai Yuk II." Here's hoping that one comes to the Tower soon.

Though unrated, "The Legend of Fong Sai Yuk" would probably get an R for a fight scene early in the film that features a bit of gore, though most of the rest of the film's violence is of the slap-and-kick variety; there is also some profanity.