Stunning computer-generated special effects are the main selling point of Dragon Wars: D-War; a Korean-made fantasy about ancient monsters wreaking havoc in modern Los Angeles. The complex plot; based on legend; pits an evil serpent and its demonic army against a young woman (Amanda Brooks) who is the reincarnation of a young woman imbued with the heaven-sent power to transform the creature into an all-powerful dragon. Jason Behr (The Grudge) is the reporter who discovers that he too is a reincarnated warrior bound to prevent Brooks and her power from falling into the wrong hands. The elaborate premise isn't helped by the script; which delivers absurd dialogue and situations with child-like naivete; thankfully; the presence of Robert Forster (as another reincarnated hero) and solid actors like Elizabeth Pena; The Office's Craig Robinson; and Chris Mulkey; help smooth over the frequent moments of unintentional humor. But this won't matter much to fantasy fans and (especially) younger viewers; who will tune in for the film's riot of special effects; director Shim Hyung-rae and his talented team offer scene after scene of exceptional CGI creations; most notably a aerial dogfight between helicopters and winged lizards in the skies above downtown L.A.; and a climactic battle which makes good on the title's promise. The DVD includes a making-of featurette which outlines Shim's four-year struggle to complete the project; as well as storyboard galleries and an animatics display. -- Paul Gaita