Review of Man of Tai Chi (2013) by Sarfaraz A — 24 Dec 2013

Man of Tai Chi - Chinese / US film debut-directorial by Keanu Reeves (also starring in antagonist role). Film is based on real stuntman and friend of Keanu 'Tiger Chen' (Crouching Tiger - Hidden Dragon / Matrix Reloaded). Also starring Karen Mok. Film is in Cantonese, Mandarin and English subtitles.

Tiger Chen works at courier-service. He is sole disciple at 600 year ancient temple run by his spiritual master. He is part-time fighter at succession of MMA fighting-tournaments; from where he catches attention of Donaka (Keanu Reeves) who runs illegal pay-channel for his rich-audience, where the contestants fight to death. Upon being notified. Karen is a good-cop who wants to bring down the network of illegal activity run by Reeves.

We cannot snub this film, unlike many other people. By now I have seen over 50 martial-arts movies and based on such experience, I can say that film borrows better plot-segments as well as good camera-work. Sincere work has been done on this film, just by looking at the number of fight-sequences and action-choreography of the film. Film did require some check-and-balance - but it does not disqualify actor-turned-director Keanu's efforts and struggle, having enjoyed moderate movie-story within limited budget as well as equipment.