“Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” opens new doors of possibility for the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Mechanically, the film works surprisingly well. The cinematography of the fight scenes borderlines the typical, quick-cut edits Marvel movies employ, while treading, very carefully, into more experimental techniques, such as those seen in the Marvel Netflix shows like “Daredevil”.
For example, the movie opens with a part-dance part-fight amongst the film’s two catalysts for action, Wenwu and Yang Li. In taking inspiration from Chinese films, they connect the picture and stunts to eastern philosophy.
The Macau, China, scenes of this movie were simply breathtaking. The colors of the city were inspiring and peaked my interest. The clothing designs of these scenes left me wanting to wear a spiked, colorful mask on my face.
These choices in design helped to elevate the fight scenes of this particular movie. Without getting too spoiler-y, the contrasting dichotomies of these colors made the fight scenes flow smoothly, like a trained martial artist fight really is. I only wish the filmmakers had pushed this idea further- I wanted these scenes to indulge fully into the stunt work, rather than relying partly on editing and splicing.
The plot of the movie still relies on the tropes embraced by Marvel writers and producers. There is the sassy side character, Katy, the simple Campbell’s Hero’s Journey, and also the well-meaning, but misinformed, antagonist.
This movie breaks certain tropes, however. Katy, for example, becomes vital to the journey (besides comedic relief). She brings about a certain change in the story that feels refreshing, and hopeful.
The movie does not take any particular risks. It only slightly attempts to reintroduce cinematographic techniques in a money-scheming franchise. The glimpses of filmmaking mastery gives me hope and excitement to see what the future may hold for these movies.
The movie is joyous, it kept me engaged and I felt satisfied with how it ended. I would give it a 3/5.
