“Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” has finally premiered and it has introduced the newest Marvel hero to audiences, the titular character, Shang-Chi, played by actor Simu Liu. “Shang-Chi” is a movie that everyone should witness because it’s absolutely phenomenal. Any fan of martial arts movies, Marvel, or even Tony Leung himself will have a great time watching “Shang-Chi.”
From the action sequences to the emotional core of the film, “Shang-Chi” is one for the books. “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” has finally been topped as “Shang-Chi” can now rightfully claim the title for the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s (MCU) best action sequences.
The action scenes are not only amazing with the fight choreography and the visuals but there are various types of fight scenes from the bus scene to the final battle in Ta Lo. The action was never stagnant and this contributed to the stellar pace of the film as well. And with an opening scene that feels reminiscent of a film like “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,” that’s when “Shang-Chi” feels truly special.
“Shang-Chi” is visually stunning, well-acted, amazingly paced, and it’s also a very funny film. Yes, many people expect humor in the MCU, but often, it’s occasional jokes thrown over serious moments or just played up for a nice trailer. But “Shang-Chi” escapes this curse; it’s a very humorous film and the humor wasn’t forced or grating. Awkwafina’s Katy is one of the main sources of the comedy, and Katy’s and Shang-Chi’s friendship is played up well in the movie. But Awkwafina’s Katy isn’t just a source for a laugh; she is given a major, well-deserved role in the film.
Directed and co-written by Destin Daniel Cretton, the film’s strongest points aren’t just with the action and the humor; it has a strong emotional core as well. “Shang-Chi” explores themes of family and grief, a theme that seems to be common for MCU Phase 4, and handles both themes in a sophisticated manner. The familial relationship between Shang-Chi, his sister, Xu Xialing, their father, Wenwu, and their late mother, Ying Li was fascinating and also heartbreaking to witness.
Everyone in the film gives wonderful performances, and in a move similar to “Black Panther,” “Shang-Chi” does not lack for powerful, awe-inspiring women. From Fala Chen’s Ying Li to Meng’er Zhang’s Xu Xialing, the women are given a front-row seat in the story that doesn’t feel like tokenism or rewarding a participation trophy.
Simu Liu is a great lead as Shang-Chi. He is convincing as a charismatic hero, but also someone the audience immediately sympathizes with because of his background and broken family relationships. As the villain, Tony Leung is amazing, delivering a nuanced performance that would be expected from such a seasoned actor.
Everything from the music and the cinematography to the fight scenes and heartbreaking, emotional scenes are absolutely stellar. “Shang-Chi” is not only a top-tier Marvel film but a great film that can be easily rewatched time and time again.
Watch Destiny’s video below, where she gives her full spoiler thoughts and her predictions on those end-credit scenes!
4.5/5 stars
