He's lost it
Very dissapointed with this film--convoluted plot and the over reliance on graphic tech. But most of all, Stephen Seagal has lost much of his athleticism since his earlier flics. To compensate, his only real action is his face, which then gives way to standins or high-end editing techniques. Additional compensation is the "magic" possessed by his character, which puts bullets, arrows, and karate chops into slow motion. Not new but I wonder if this technique does not also permit his own karate movements to be slowed down, thereby covering up his lost athleticism.
Of course, with age everyone goes down hill but shouldn't action heros, like beauty queens, bow out when they have lost their special talent? Stephan Seagal need not leave film, for I could see him in other genres that are not based on athletic skill. Age is not always a factor, but SS in this film does not have the agility and speed that are associated with karate stars. I know that there are people who enjoy this film and it has its merits, but in it SS is running on his past fame not his present gifts.