[dropcap size=big]S[/dropcap]hang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings is a dynamic and fun ride. It not only brings Marvel’s first Asian Superhero as the main protagonist but also, carefully weaves an intimate and personal journey for the audience to experience.
When Shang-Chi first came out in the 70s it was a reflection of the times. It was racially problematic and reinforced stereotypical ideals and written through a White lens. With such a legacy of racist portrayals of Asians and our culture, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings had a tall order to set things right.
Marvel has mastered the craft of creating authentic and believable characters that continuously keep the audience invested in the story throughout the entire film. Shang-Chi and its cast were as strong as the powerful Ten Rings themselves. The film explored characters, motives, and emotions intimately as they drew from Chinese culture while simultaneously combating Asian stereotypes.
The film itself embraces Eastern culture- from the filmmaking style, stunt choreo, to casting Hong Kong legends like Tony Leung and Michelle Yeoh. Leung’s character “The Mandarin” has one of the best character arcs within the MCU.
His performance as the father of Shang-Chi was personal and deep, while also being intimidating and driven. Simu Liu also shows his dynamic range as an actor and performer, blessing viewers with his mesmerizing and fluid martial arts skills.
As an Asian American pursuing acting myself, Shang-Chi was a breath of fresh air that inspired me to strive further as an artist, to be proud of who I am and to continue to follow my aspirations.
Simu and Awkwafina carry the comedy and friendship we want to see on the big screen. The action sequences were near perfect and drew influence from 80s Hong Kong Action filmmaking, allowing the audience to sit in on the action and really feel the stakes.
The film’s soundtrack (and OST) was also an amazing collaboration of Asian musicians and artists pouring their souls into creating a special experience for the viewers. It allowed for Asian musicians to be spotlighted in a blockbuster film.
The Original Soundtrack composed by Joel P. West was also a triumph of emotions. It had amazing modern dynamics complemented with traditional Chinese instruments. The OST was very reminiscent of Chinese composer Tan Dun’s work, like…. Hero and Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon. It is a symphony of power and grace that left the audience feeling that no task was too small to overcome.
The film’s emphasis on honor and family brings to light the ideals that most Asian households are upheld by. It becomes the theme of the film as it depicts the importance of having these two connections.
On a personal note, I loved this film. It quickly became one of my top Marvel films. It has top tier action and a truly personal story that I felt connected to. There were times where I shed a tear and times I heard the audience take a collective sniffle at certain scenes.
As an Asian American pursuing acting myself, Shang-Chi was a breath of fresh air that inspired me to strive further as an artist, to be proud of who I am and to continue to follow my aspirations.
While watching the film it was an interesting feeling, a sensation of calm, comfort and excitement. It is nice to see Asian faces to be seen in such a positive light. The soundtrack also gave me a feeling of empowerment I only ever felt while listening to Wong-Fei Hung’s theme song from Once upon a Time in China (1991).
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings is both an intense and lighthearted story that leaves you inspired and pumped at the end.
