Review of Man of Tai Chi (2013) by Lewis E — 25 Oct 2014

'The Matrix Revolutions' isn't the only place where you can enjoy overly dramatic, anti-climatic martial art fights involving Neo. 'Man of Tai Chi' often sets the stage nicely for a great fight sequence but then fails to truly execute one. Despite being done before, the underground fighting premise works in providing a solid platform to this film. What does not work is its over predictability, lack of character detail and only mildly entertaining martial art scenes. Not the worst in the world but battle scenes can appear too contrived with opponents acting as if they are waiting for their cue to punch and get punched. Obvious that it is Keanu Reeves first stab at directing thus the mistakes made are understandable. Less obvious is the fact that he has actually had acting experience before this.

Serviceable for people who can't get enough martial arts but hard to rate generously when the choreography (and practically all other aspects) are so much better in 'The Raid/The Raid 2'.