Review of Ip Man (2008) by Johnathon W — 16 Aug 2015
Solid martial arts film that is only held back due to the lack of a formidable villain. Donnie Yen is at his leading man best, portraying Ip Man as a family man too prideful to ask for help while getting to display is brilliant martial arts skills.
The rest of the cast is solid for the most part, particularly Hiroyuki Ikeuchi as the ruthless Gen. Miura, who first appears a sadist but has geniune respect for Ip Man's skills. Behind the camera, Wilson Yip directs some excellent martial arts sequences, showing off the Wing Chun style while giving the film some gravitas by setting it in 1930's China when it was occupied by Japan.
The main flaw is the lack of a villain that can challenge Ip Man, as every fight is so one-sided there is no drama. Overall, a fun martial arts movie but not quite a dramatic one.
This review of Ip Man (2008) was written by Johnathon W on 16 Aug 2015.
Ip Man has generally received very positive reviews.
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