Review of Once Upon a Time in Shanghai (2014) by Jesse O — 13 Apr 2015
This movie is pretty much a homage to Bruce Lee, the main character Ma Yongzhen has the same clothing, humble beginnings, awesome at martial arts, same haircut, and injuries in Lee's famous movies.
The simple peasant is too good at fighting, and sent to 1900's Shanghai in order to live there. Along the way, he meets a retired kung fu master and courts his daughter, and also befriends a fierce but loyal rising crime lord.
The story is rather basic, but the its the tense music combined with Woo Ping Yuen's fight choreography that really steals the show. The scenes are violent and intense, with solid cinematography to back everything up.
Andy On isn't the main star or villain, but he steals the show as the rival who turns into a loyal friend. Once Upon a Time in Shanghai has a weird colour palette that sets the mood, for this fight filled martial arts homage gem.
This review of Once Upon a Time in Shanghai (2014) was written by Jesse O on 13 Apr 2015.
Once Upon a Time in Shanghai has generally received positive reviews.
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