Shang Chi: Legend of the Ten Rings Movie Review

by Jess Currier

Shang Chi: The Legend of the Ten Rings is a movie that was a blast to watch from start to finish. From the cinematography and visuals, cast, soundtrack, and story, it was an action packed and emotional Marvel movie. Marvel is known for its action scenes and this film did not disappoint. The cast is led by an outstanding cast including Simu Liu, Menger Zhang, Tony Leung, Fala Chen, Awkwafina and many others. 

It's probably best to leave the complexities of Xu Shang Chi's life to the film. Let’s just say, he and his sister, Xu Xialing are descended from a powerful and mythical family. First, there is their mom, Leiko Wu, protector of the town named Ta Lo, which so happens to be all that stands between mankind and its impending annihilation.

Then sits their dad, Xu Wenwu, also known as the Mandarin. He is an ageless warrior who is aided by a fabled pair of bracelets on his wrists known as the Ten Rings. Stockpiling money and power for years and years, he plays about with governments, making many enemies and forming his own extremely strictly trained and strong army. He is essentially unbeatable to the vast majority.

He sets out to discover Ta Lo, the final frontier for a guy who has it all. There, he meets the woman who later becomes the mother of his two children, the beautiful and mystical Leiko. For the first time in millennia, he meets a formidable match- he essentially has his ass handed to him in one of the film's most delightful sequences, (a personal favorite) there are close ups of the kung-fu combat and expressions on their faces as they fight, and it appears like they’re both falling in love as they battle- and they do fall deeply in love. He marries her, and they have two children, Shang and Xialing. The film shows the two lovers happy and peaceful with their children, Shang and Xu… until tragedies inevitably happen, as the Mandarins’ past catches up to him.

A compelling and powerful tale is shown, but the further details are ones you must see for yourself. I found myself crying several times as the father and children came to a head in an epic finale. I highly recommend this film to anyone who enjoys comic book movies or beautifully done films with all the elements that create an exciting and emotional movie. There are two end credit scenes so make sure you stick around after the credits roll. I sincerely hope to see this story continue. Finally, I must note that I went and saw this movie with my mom and she fully enjoyed it as well. I would give this film an 8.5/10. I only deduct points because at times the CGI is a bit extreme, but overall an amazing experience.

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