Review of Ip Man (2008) by E L — 28 Jul 2012
Donnie Yen's not a great actor, but he has more warmth and presence than Jet Li. As a martial artist actor he is close to flawless. High production values ensure a faithful era recreation, even if that consideration didn't extend to biographical accuracy.
It doesn't veer too far from the noble-martial-art-hero-against-the-odds cliche, although it does have more depth and introspection than you'd expect. Set as it is during the Sino-Japanese war, the nationalistic overtones are probably unavoidable (if somewhat distasteful), some scenes are a little bit hokey (factory workers spontaneously practising on the floor? OHS would have a field day.
..) and the stock standard cowardly and noble villains abound.
This review of Ip Man (2008) was written by E L on 28 Jul 2012.
Ip Man has generally received very positive reviews.
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