What is a hero? That is one of the many questions posed in the Tsui Hark-produced film Swordsman II, a free adaptation of the Jin Yong (Louis Cha) novel Xiao Ao Jiang Hu. With Ching Siu-Tung at the helm, Swordsman II avoids the dangers of sequel-itis. In comparison to the first film, it's far more focused and emerges as the superior movie in the series. And even more intriguing, it shows a willingness go to places that a traditional popcorn film wouldn't even dare.
Set in the Ming Dynasty, Swordsman II continues the tale of carefree Ling Wu-Chung (Jet Li) and his tomboy sidekick Kiddo (Michelle Reis). Disheartened by their master's betrayal in the first film, the two comrades have decided to retire from the martial arts world along with their Wah Mountain brothers. With the world of violence and conflict a distant memory, Ling can focus on something more important - women. Just as in the first film, young Kiddo has a crush on Ling, and tries desperately to shed her tomboy image, but to no avail.
Complicating matters is the fact that Ling has feelings for Highlander Ying (Rosamund Kwan) whom he and his brothers have agreed to meet one last time before retirement. Ying's father Wu is the rightful leader of the Sun Moon Sect, but has been double-crossed and imprisoned by the mysterious and powerful Asia the Invincible (Brigitte Lin) - the possessor of the much-desired Sacred Scroll. And if Ling's girl troubles weren't enough, he meets the elegant Asia and ends up falling for her!