Movie:
The Storm Riders is the English title for Fung Wan Hung Ba Tin Gwong, which was originally released overseas in 1998. Directed by Andrew Lau (The Duel), the film stars Aaron Kwok (Cloud), Ekin Cheng (Wind), Sonny Chiba (Conqueror), Kristy Yang (Charity), Michael Tse (Frost), Anthony Wong Chau-Sang (Sword Saint), and Roy Cheung. While there are several versions of the film on DVD, this disc is from Shanghai Jinxiang and is playable in all region players.

When the Conqueror, leader of the Conqueror Clan, learns from the Mud Buddha that if he unites Wind and Cloud he is destined to become invincible, he immediately rounds up all the children with their birth chart. Despite the best efforts of their fathers, the Conqueror does indeed capture both children and begins to train them as his heirs, along with Frost. Ten years later, Conqueror is the supreme ruler, but he learns of another prophecy – if Wind and Cloud unite, he will be defeated. Conqueror then sets in motion a plan to ensure they won't. But when Wind and Cloud learn the truth about their past, they seek revenge on the Conqueror, leading to a spectacular battle at the film's climax.

Having seen the Duel, another of Andrew Lau's films, I had high expectations for The Storm Riders. I'm pleased to say that these expectations were met – and exceeded. The Storm Riders is a magnificent film. The martial arts, aided by some amazing special effects, are well done. The acting is quite good, especially by Chiba, who plays the megalomaniacal villain to perfection. The story does slow down near the second half of the film as it trades martial arts for character development, but the film as a whole is terrific.

Picture:
The Storm Riders is presented in 2.35:1 non-anamorphic widescreen. The transfer is one of the best I've seen for a Hong Kong film, though it does have some minor problems. There is a bit of shimmering and some slight edge enhancement, as well as a few small marks. Colors are vibrant throughout with accurate flesh tones and rich blacks.

Sound:
The Storm Riders is presented in Dolby Digital 5.1 in Mandarin with optional subtitles in Chinese and English. The 5.1 track is put to good use throughout, with quite a few directional effects in the surrounds. The rear speakers were quiet a bit more than I would've liked, however. The subtitles are a mixed bag. While they are understandable, they contain a lot of misspellings – even the main character's names are misspelled often which is inexcusable.

Extras:
The only extra on the disc is a Dolby Digital trailer.

Fans of the film should note that extras are available for the film on the DVD from Universe. Extras on that release include the film's trailer, actor profiles, background character info, a poster gallery, a special effects reel, and a making of featurette.

Summary:
The Storm Riders is a magnificent work of filmmaking that every fan of fantasy kung fu films should see, and with the top-notch presentation on this DVD, there's no reason not to. Highly Recommended!