The previews predicted slick special effects but few new ideas, and sure enough, religious press critics join the mainstream press in shrugging over this forgettable picture.
David DiCerto (Catholic News Service) says, "While director Paul Hunter has certainly earned his black belt for the film's ultrastylized, gravity-defying acrobatics, the script at times is so hackneyed that better writing can been found in fortune cookies."
Loren Eaton (Focus on the Family) says, "There's nothing unique or especially creative about this
Shaun Daugherty (Preview) says, "The film espouses a Buddhist worldview. It has some entertainment to offer to martial-arts fans but is unacceptable due primarily to language and violence."
Movieguide's critic concludes that the movie is "an entertaining fantasy," but it should be avoided because it "teaches a lot of Eastern philosophy and Buddhist mysticism."
But Holly McClure (Crosswalk) confesses, "I can't help it—I like this movie for the sheer chemistry between the two leads. The partnering of Yun-Fat and William Scott, the mentor and pupil, is what makes this story work and the sassy, witty barbs, and dialogue are what keep it funny and interesting. This is a fun, action-adventure, popcorn movie that will appeal to the hero in all of us."