SHANG-CHI AND THE LEGEND OF THE TEN RINGS REVIEW

 *MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS*

In 2019, Avengers: Endgame concluded the Infinity Saga in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Now, two years later, the release of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings marks Phase Four of the MCU. Most of the films have been successful both with critics and at the box office, however, is Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings a worthy addition to the MCU?

The latest film in the MCU introduces viewers to Shang-Chi (Simu Liu) who is living a simple life working as a valet in America with his best friend, Katy (Awkwafina). However, an attack from a group of  men on a bus, it is revealed that Shang-Chi’s father is Xu Wenwu (Tony Leung) who is the leader of the Ten Rings, which are mystical weapons that grant their user immortality and great power. Following this encounter, Shang-Chi is forced to confront his past and prevent his father from causing chaos.

Although it’s not without its flaws, Shang-Chi is an exciting addition to the MCU. Like with most of the films in the superhero-based franchise, the strengths of the film lie in the thrilling action sequences and impressive performances by its cast. The main flaws are the special effects and predictable story, fortunately, they didn’t prevent me from thoroughly enjoying Shang-Chi.

Shang-Chi has a memorable opening sequence as it details how Shang-Chi’s parents, Wenwu and Ying Li (Fala Chen), met when the former discovers the latter’s home village, Ta Lo, which is said to harbour various mythical beasts, in order to expand his power. The pair using their unique fighting skills makes for an exciting opening sequence. 

I can imagine that many people, like me, were unfamiliar with Shang-Chi as he’s not as well-known as Iron Man, Captain America and Spider-Man. However, you don’t necessarily need to be a comic book fan in order to enjoy Shang-Chi as, unlike the majority of films in the MCU, it works as a stand-alone superhero film. It introduces viewers to Shang-Chi really well and, by the time the film had finished, I was  excited to see more of the character in future films. One of the post credits scenes hints that this film won’t be the last we’ll see of Shang-Chi and his magical rings. 

Following the release of Endgame in 2019, I was wondering how the MCU could keep its fans interested in the franchise. However, the recent release of Black Widow and Shang-Chi and three original spin-off series, WandaVision, The Falcon and the Winter Solder and Loki proves that there’s still plenty for fans to enjoy. Shang-Chi is an exciting addition to the MCU as it provides viewers with what they’ve come to expect from the franchise, including exhilarating action sequences, whilst introducing them to a new group of interesting and memorable characters.

Casting is an important part when it comes to making a superhero film. If it wasn’t for Robert Downey Jr.’s perfect portrayal of the charming Tony Stark, the Iron Man films probably wouldn’t have left much of an impression. Because of this, there was a lot of pressure to find the right actor to portray the leading hero, Shang-Chi. Fortunately, with Simu Liu, they have achieved that. Although Liu has limited acting experience (he previously appeared in the sitcom, Kim’s Convenience and the crime drama series, Blood and Water), Liu delivers an instantly likeable performance as Shang-Chi. Leung is one of Asia's most successful and internationally recognised actors, however, Shang-Chi marks his first English-language role and it’s an impressive debut. What I liked most about Leung’s portrayal of Shang-Chi’s father, Wenwu, is that he wasn’t a one-dimensional evil villain wanting to destroy the world, rather a flawed man grieving the loss of his wife. Awkwafina is known for her comedic roles in Crazy Rich Asians and Ocean’s 8, however, she also impressed many with her dramatic performance in Lulu Wang’s The Farewell. In Shang-Chi, she is a scene-stealer as Shang-Chi’s best friend, Katy. Although she doesn’t have any superpowers, she still gets involved in the action, especially during the climatic battle. Shang-Chi also features surprising appearances from familiar faces.

Because of the pandemic, Disney have made the controversial decision to release some of their films, including Cruella and Black Widow, in cinemas and on their streaming service, Disney+, for an additional Premier Access fee. However, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings has been released in cinemas which I think is a good decision as it’s worth watching on the big screen. I’ve always personally preferred watching films at the cinema as I get easily distracted at home and I soon lose interest, however, that’s never the case at the cinema as it’s a form of escapism. 

With exciting action and an impressive lead performance by Simu Liu, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings is a strong addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

8/10