Now that the battle is at boiling point, one can easily forget the overused nature of the plot and really appreciate all the other going-ons; such as the training and covert missions and new characters.
I really like how there are lots of different styles of Martial Arts being used, with varying ethos' and strengths and levels of esteem. Also, many of the moves used in the battle scenes are explained in detail; from the training that goes into them, the working of the muscles, what's required to get it right, etc, etc. It's all very interesting.