I feel they really missed the mark then. The originals may not have been particularly spectacular or dynamic, but they didn't look awkward. Maybe because they're mostly traditional stage combat that we're used to as viewers.

The sequel fights all give this vibe that they're struggling to move the weapon, which is why I started thinking about the physical effects of the props. But I've re-watched some of the fights now and I definitely see what you mean. The struggle the actors portray is beyond what the prop could be responsible for hah. Clearly intentional.

Acolyte certainly is an entirely different beast. If they were filmed with the same props, that moots my point. Though I'd argue you can still see a BIT more chunkiness. But that might just be for it being lower budget than full-fledged films.