Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021) Movie Review
Synopsis:
Master martial artist Shang-Chi (Simu Liu) works as a parking valet in San Francisco under the name Shaun. He and his friend Katy (Awkwafina) are soon hunted by the Ten Rings organization. Leading them is Shang-Chi’s father, Wenwu (Tony Leung), who seeks to use his son’s skills to aid in his conquest.
Review:
With Shang-Chi, Marvel Studios decided to venture into the realm of Chinese mythology.
In many ways, Shang-Chi explores new ground, at least when it concerns the visual style.
With its plot structure and character beats, though, a sense of familiarity remains.
As an example, Shang-Chi’s friend, Katy (Awkwafina), serves as a typical Marvel sidekick. Her one purpose is to provide annoying humor.
Think Michael Peña’s Luis from the Ant-Man movies or Thor’s Asgardian friends from those films.
On most occasions, her scenes are irritating. This is because that time could've furthered the plot instead.
While story exposition for movies can be important, audiences should have time to breathe.
Most of Shang-Chi’s exposition happens within its first act, which can slow it down.
Although this can be an issue, it also serves as a unique way to build the film’s main antagonist.
This movie’s antagonist, Wenwu (Tony Leung), gives a good performance. As a whole, Wenwu's not your typical MCU antagonist.
His motivations are personal, which makes the character more understandable.
Tony Leung also displays a strong presence during the action scenes.
Taking inspiration from Jackie Chan-style films, Shang-Chi’s action is well-choreographed.
These sequences are also well-shot. During these sequences, the camera sits back, allowing viewers to register the action.
In a comparable way to other MCU entries, its action falters once the third act starts.
This means sacrificing stunt-based fights for more empty CGI spectacle.
Die-hard fans may be able to look past this. Others may have hoped for something more original.
Conclusion:
As a whole, Shang-Chi represents a unique step forward for Marvel Studios.
Its exploration of Chinese mythology and ideas makes it a different film compared to other superhero entries.
Shang-Chi's flaws are its exposition-filled first half and the third's questionable visual effects. Despite these, it remains a unique experience.
Sam’s Action Reaction score:
Characters - 6/10
Story - 6/10
Action - 7/10
CGI and visuals - 6/10
Soundtrack - 6/10
Overall score: 6.2 out of 10
