Meltdown (4 Stars)

This is another Jet Li film that has been released with two different names, "Meltdown" and "High Risk". As I already said when reviewing another film, I hate it when they do that!

Frankie Lone (Jackie Cheung) is a successful kung fu movie star in Hong Kong. He boasts that he always does his own stunts, but he often turns up drunk and is unable to perform, so his bodyguard Kit Li (Jet Li) does his stunts secretly. Frankie's fans call him one of China's greatest martial arts experts, but in truth he's long past his best years. When faced with real danger Frankie is cowardly and tries to avoid fights.

Most of the film takes place in a hotel during a reception for film stars. Frankie and the other guests have been trapped by a ruthless terrorist, the Doctor. Kit attempts to save them.

When the film was first released the film company released a statement saying that Frankie Lone was not based on Jackie Chan. It's interesting that they needed to say that. I would never have made that connection. If anything, Frankie's looks and mannerisms in the film are based on Bruce Lee, who I'm sure was a genuine martial artist.

The film is laced with comedy, and the action isn't as intense as in most of Jet Li's films, but it's nevertheless entertaining. I recommend it to my readers.