You wait years for a Tai Chi film and then three cross your path within a few weeks. Firstly, I received my 4k Blu-ray of the Jet Li classic ‘Tai Chi Master’, then I watch (and review) 80s effort ‘Tai Chi Chun’ and now I am presented with an update on the story of Chan Sanfeng (who many think invented the art). However, if you thought the Jet Li film was a little outlandish, this wuxia-tinged piece makes the 1993 effort look like it was directed by Bela Tarr.
Tai Chi master Chan Sanfeng is reluctantly involved in the intrigues of the Song dynasty as different factions fight for supremacy. Joining the emperor’s side, Chan finds his quiet life disturbed by an attack on his village, a moment that drops him in the middle of the tensions. Assisted by a quirky band of sidekicks, Chan encounters masked killers, rampaging giant silkworms and otherworldly assassins before discovering that the main threat might be closer to him than he had ever imagined.
There’s a healthy supply of slick martial arts films appearing on streaming services recently, though while they usually look impressive the overall quality can vary greatly. ‘The Tai Chi Master’ has all the components you expect – an impressive budget, a handful of beautiful actresses, and plenty of action – but never quite convinces.
The main problem with ‘The Tai Chi Master’ – and something I keep encountering with straight-to-streaming movies from China – is that it seems like a film that was edited down from a television series. I don’t think that was the case, but I might be wrong. So much happens while assuming that the audience is aware of all of the intrigues; there isn’t any build-up or gentle introduction of characters. ‘The Tai Chi Master’ goes straight into events unapologetically and adds twists that lack any kind of punch as we haven’t anything invested in the characters. At times I wondered if there was some supplemental reading I was meant to have done. Of course this often goes with the territory, but while Chu Yuan could condense vast worlds into ninety minute films while taking you along for the journey, ‘The Tai Chi Master’ leaves you waving furiously at the starting point.
While it might be convoluted, you cannot fault the look of the film. Despite a few ill-advised computer effects, this has an effective atmosphere and battles in dark caverns are especially effective. The film is also stacked with impressive villains though the ease at which they are defeated when the hero has a lightning quick epiphany made me mutter ‘barely an inconvenience’ under my breath (if you know, you know). With all this said, it’s worth catching if you want an action fix as there is enough going on to easily fill the running time.
Well Go USA are bringing ‘The Tai Chi Master’ to US Digital on November 12, 2024. The film will be available to stream on Amazon.com or Hiyahtv.com.
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