Fantastic gong fu flick...finally Donnie Yen breaks out of playing 2nd fiddle to Jet Li and puts in a creditable performance as Bruce Lee's mentor.
Another lost in English translation moments uncovered. Wing Chung is what the Americans calls Yong Chun. Other examples include (Chinese / Cantonese):
Dim Sim -> Dian Xin / Dim Sum
Chow Mein -> Cao Mian / Cao Meen
Seems the director went for an 'all's well that ends well aka good triumphs over evil' style. Jaw dropping fight scenes built up well to the (inevitable) climatic final battle. Be prepared for some 'OUCH' moments!
Story - Skillful recreation of China in the 1930s /1940s set, more homage to famed gong fu master than detailed historical chronicle. The 'Bruce Lee's teacher' angle was pure marketing spin (6.5/10).
Pace - 2 hours seemed comfortable enough for a typical Chinese gong fu flick. Main character took center stage with supportings characters playing their part competently (7/10).
Cast - Mostly forgettable performances from supporting cast the only complaint. Donnie is a lean mean fighting machine WOW (7/10).
Overall - Must see for fans of Jet Li's 'Once Upon a Time' & 'Fong Sai Yuk' series. Also a good experience for those uninitiated with old school Chinese gong fu movies (7/10).
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