Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings - Review

"If you aim at nothing, you hit nothing" – A review of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. 

I like a good Marvel film, but I must admit I find it difficult to keep up. Between the films and the shows, there's so much lore that I find it slightly overwhelming, and the only time I was truly up to date with everything was during the Covid lockdowns in 2020. For that reason, there's plenty of Marvel films I haven't seen, and I must admit I slightly lost interest after Endgame – but Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings caught my interest.

Released in 2021 and directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings follows Shang-Chi, a young man living a quiet life in San Francisco until one day, his past catches up with him in the form of the mysterious Ten Rings organisation. What starts as a simple fight for survival fast becomes a journey of self-discovery, as Shang-Chi discovers family secrets and carries the weight of his father's legacy.

At its core, this is a film about legacy, family and identity. Sure, there are fast paced, flashy battles but there's so much more to this film; it's about having the courage and bravery to forge your own path and about finding peace with your own roots. There's never a dull moment, yet the relationship between Shang-Chi and his father is genuinely poignant, adding so much emotional depth to the fast-paced plot. It's a joy to watch Shang-Chi grow from reluctant hero to someone willing to embrace his destiny, and the film even celebrates cultural heritage, with Chinese traditions and mythology being present throughout in a way that feels natural rather than forced.

Simu Liu is brilliant as Shang-Chi, bringing charisma, vulnerability and strength to the role, making him a compelling lead. His journey from an ordinary young man to a confident and capable hero feels authentic and emotional, making him a great protagonist to root for. Awkwafina provides a dose of wit and heart as Katy, the loyal sidekick, while Tony Leung's portrayal of Wenwu offers a complex, layered antagonist that stands out among Marvel villains. The supporting cast, including Michelle Yeoh and Meng'er Zhang, add gravitas and charm, ensuring every scene feels engaging and authentic.

The score, which includes traditional Chinese instruments, sets the mood perfectly. It's energetic and emotional, enhancing every scene. The film looks great too, with vibrant colours and breathtaking locations—from neon-lit cities to mystical forests. The action sequences are brilliantly choreographed, blending martial arts with the flair audiences have come to expect from Marvel films, making for exciting viewing.

Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings is a genuinely good addition to the Marvel film lineup. It's got humour, heart and tonnes of action, a brilliant celebration of superhero and cultural storytelling. If you're a fan of Marvel, or enjoy fast paced, high energy movies, this one's for you.

Written by Tam Page

Posted by Mr. Tomney

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