Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings: A Comedy Action Adventure New for Marvel, But A Favorite For Us

Without knowledge of 2021’s Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, one might think this film is another formulaic addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This means choreographed fights, high-budget CGI, entrancing production design, and a few one-liners for comedic effect.

To say that this film completely goes against the formula we’ve seen in recent submissions is an understatement. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings has to be one of the most exciting action movies to come out this year. With a theater-exclusive opening, the film shattered box office expectations, making 127.6 million in its box office opening.

Simu Liu is Shang-Chi, a martial arts master, is caught up in his past with the Ten Rings organization. What began as an origin film for the hero unravels new layers with its themes of identity and family while blending martial arts and comedy for a refreshing new perspective on what a superhero movie can be. 

The film enhances elements seen in Marvel films but creates a distinction in its expansion of Asian-led representation. The film pays homage to the popularity of comedic martial arts movies that came with the globalization of Asian cinema from the ’80s to the early 2000s. We see this with its complex fight scenes, reminiscent of the comedic timing in Jackie Chan films. Director Destin Daniel Cretton was inspired by such Kung-fu classics and their byproducts, hiring cinematographer Bill Pope, who famously worked on The Matrix films. Brad Allen, who frequently collaborates with Jackie Chan, coordinated many fight scenes. As a result, the fight sequences are stylistic and thrilling in their props, location, and comedic timing. Visually, each character has their fighting style that reflects their personal development through the film. 

The film uses its cast to the best of its abilities, with Awkwafina as Shang-Chi’s lovable best friend, Katy. Thrust into this family of estranged martial artists, Katy provides hilarious commentary in the background of fight scenes and interactions with other characters, such as Benedict Wong’s surprised reprisal of Wong. Legendary Hong Kong actor Tony Leung is compelling in his performance as the Mandarin, a cynical father, and villain for the film. Meng’er Zhang as Xialing was not only her debut to the MCU but her first film project. She stands out as the powerful business-oriented sister to Shang-Chi with a fiery drive. Simu Liu’s performance deals with the struggle of a double identity that many Asian-Americans are forced to face. Liu proves to be a prominent new addition while also letting his audience know his comedic abilities, such as in the quirky karaoke bar scene with co-star Awakfina. Liu gives his character a strong presence in the film and is delightful to watch as he maneuvers a performance of comedy, drama, and stunt work. 

By the final act, the production design alone enhances the fantastical elements of Chinese cinema that almost makes one forget the blandness that can come with entirely coordinated CGI scenes seen in other Marvel films. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings is a step away from other Marvel films and shines in its cultural expansion. I would highly recommend audiences to watch this fun and densely filled film, especially if you enjoy the works of Jackie Chan, Bruce Lee or want a lighthearted movie filled with laughs and outstanding stunt choreography and visuals. 

Marvel’s Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings is now playing in theaters.