Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021) - Movie Review

Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings - A Refreshing Origin

Rating - 8/10

“You can’t outrun who you really are.”

    Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings is one of Marvel’s most refreshing origin stories in years. It introduces a brand new hero to the MCU while delivering some of the best hand to hand combat we have seen in the franchise. The fight choreography is sharp, fast, and creative, with standout sequences like the bus fight and the battle on the scaffolding in Macau easily ranking among Marvel’s most exciting action moments.

    One of the strongest elements of the movie is its villain. Tony Leung as Wenwu brings depth and nuance to the role of Shang Chi’s father, making him one of the best antagonists in the MCU. He is not just a power hungry figure, but a man torn between grief, love, and control. His presence elevates every scene he is in and gives the story real emotional weight.

    On the flip side, the humor does not always land. While Marvel has always leaned on comedy to lighten the mood, here it occasionally cuts into moments that would have been more impactful without it. Awkwafina’s performance as Katy will work for some viewers, but personally I found her character more distracting than helpful at times. The third act also dips into familiar Marvel territory, with a big CGI heavy battle that loses some of the intimacy and focus that made the earlier action so great.

    Despite those issues, Shang Chi is a strong entry into the MCU. Simu Liu brings charm and relatability to the role, the mythology of the Ten Rings is engaging, and the family drama gives the movie a strong emotional center. It is not perfect, but it is a thrilling, heartfelt, and promising introduction for a hero who will no doubt play a major role in Marvel’s future.

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