Set in 11th-century China, Silk Road is the story of a young student named Zhao who is travelling with a caravan on "the Silk Road," an ancient trading route. After the caravan is attacked by a group of mercenaries, the leader of the criminals takes Zhao under his wing, so the boy can learn and experience the shifting sands of history. Taken back to the city of Dun Huang, Zhao falls in love with a princess. However, Dun Huang is soon invaded by a neighboring country, forcing Zhao to hide the city's treasures in caves. The Silk Road is paced quite leisurely, yet it sparks to life with its terrific battle sequences.
~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine, All Movie Guide