Why are the officials of Empress Wu bursting into flame? Have a really great time finding out in Detective Dee and the Mystery of the Phantom Flame. I almost missed this jewel of the orient due to its limited release. So, if you can catch this one in the cinema, you will not be disappointed. Directed by Tsui Hark, this English subtitled China-Hong Kong martial arts mystery follows the investigation of Detective Dee (Andy Lau) who is released from prison by the Empress Wu so he can solve the mystery of why her high officials are spontaneously combusting.

The fascinating action begins in a 400 foot tall statue of Buddha, being constructed for Wu's coronation, and moves across a beautifully realized imaginary landscape of China in 690 AD. Dee is joined on his quest by an albino from the taxation office, and the handmaiden of Empress Wu, both of whom are masters of martial arts. The climax brings us back to the statue of Buddha for stupendous ending. This is satisfying film on many levels, so don't miss it.