The Man Of Tai Chi-Movie Review

Man of Tai Chi: Movie Review

By Yevette Renee Nelson

Bottom line 
A man’s journey through life balancing the light and darkness of his soul

Director 
Keanu Reeves 

Genre 
Non-stop Action

Keanu Reeves’ directorial debut, “Man of Tai Chi” follows Tiger Chen as he exhibits his mastery of the ancient art of Tai Chi. Having worked with Reeves as a choreographer on “The Matrix” series, Chen show us his capabilities as he attempts to balance the light and dark sides of human nature after being persuaded with the almighty dollar to participate in an underground fight club. The film provides all martial art enthusiasts authentic hardcore fights to enjoy.

“Man of Tai Chi” was developed to give Reeves an opportunity to honor his trainer and friend, Chen Hu. The martial-arts champion is a protégé of the well regarded Yuen Woo-ping, who was in charge of the action choreography on “The Matrix” series, “Charlie Angels and “Kill Bill”.

The crew consisted of American, Hong Kong and mainland Chinese partners, whose three languages are included in the film. They all did quality work on the film, but it is not the typical image of a Hollywood hit nor is it a carbon copy of Hong Kong classics.

The theme is certainly universal and relatable across cultural boundaries. You have a man struggling with his light and noble side that is in conflict with his dark side after becoming captivated by the power that comes with winning and making money.

The first scene begins with fighter Chi-tak (Jeremy Marinas) in a vicious combat. He gets the upper hand over his opponent, but is not ready to “finish him off,” as ordered. That decision does not make things look good for Chi-tak or anyone else who does not complete the task.

Leading the investigation on Donaka Mark (Keenau Reeves), a financial high roller from the U.S. who also runs a covert fight club in Hong Kong, is police superintendent Suen Jing-si (Karen Mok) who sets up a raid on what she believes is Donaka’s premises. The raid turns up zilch and that doesn’t help matters when Jing-si pleads to her chief (Simon Yam) for assistance on the case.

Chen Linhu (Chen) is the sole follower of the Lingkong School of Tai Chi. He makes his living as a low-paid courier in Beijing but turns down the offer to make money competing in Donaka’s underground matches. Chen believes it would be dishonorable, yet after the temple of his master (Yu Hai) faces demolition; Donaka’s offer does not appear disreputable to him after all.

The fighting includes Chinese kung fu and the no restraints of MMA techniques. Homage is paid to Gareth Evans’ Indonesia-set “The Raid: Redemption,” when its star Iko Uwais makes a guest appearance as one of Linhua’s opponent. Writer Michael G. Cooney makes a good story choice when he does not use religion as the vehicle to portray martial-arts which allows the film to follow its own unique path.

Photographer Elliot Davis keeps a laser focus on all of the action as Chen gives a credibly performance as his character’s losses his inner balance and develops a taste for blood and violence as he transitions from the gracefulness of tai chi to the voracious style of his many opponents.

Editor Derek Hui keeps the storyline moving along yet you never fully bond with any of the characters. Chen comes to life when in the familiar role of an expert martial artist and a take-no prisoner mode but when it comes to verbally interacting with others; he seems somewhat out of his comfort zone, which is to be expected since he is now playing a lead. Ye Qing, Linhu’s romantic interest, could have certainly used some tender moments with him.
.
Reeves is void of any emotion throughout his performance, and seems to be totally at ease in the role of an executioner. It was a good choice casting Karen Mok as the Police Superintendant in such a male dominated film.

Composer Chan Kwong Wing includes techno and Canto-rap mix that gives a good backdrop to the intense fight scenes. Famed production designer Yohei Taneda gives the set a modest, minimalist style, comparable to “The Matrix”. The Beijing location gives a genuine flavor of City life with its congested highways and urban neighborhoods and also provides an excellent contrast to the peacefulness of Tai Chi.

“Man of Ti Chai” is filled with hand-to-hand combat and continuous action. 8

Opens November 1, 2013

Production Company: Production: China Film Group, Wanda Media, Village Roadshow Pictures Asia, Universal Pictures, Company Films

Writer: Michael G. Cooney

Director: Keanu Reeves

Cast: Tiger Chen, Keanu Reeves, Karen Mok, Simon Yam, Yu Hai, Ye Qing

Fight Choregrapher: Yuen Wo Ping

Producer: Lemore Syvan

Director of Photography: Elliot Davis

Production Designer: Yohei Taneda

Costume Designer: Joseph A. Porro

Editor: Derek Hui

Composer: Chan Kwong Wing

Casting: PoPing AuYueng

Line Producers: Johnny Lee, Sharon Miller

Art Director: Miyuki Kitagawa

Rated
Run time: 105 Minutes
http://youtu.be/HIKQCZDYfEI