Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings was released September of this year and was directed by Destin Daniel Cretton. It managed to earn 430.1 million USD at the box office and has been widely praised as a resounding success. It is also the first instalment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe which features an Asian American lead along with a predominantly Asian cast. 

 

In many facets the character of Shang-Chi can be viewed as the cultural successor of Bruce Lee. The character first appeared in marvel comics in 1973- at the height of Lee’s movies popularity and months after the death of the fabled actor.

 

The plot follows Shaun who we soon learn has the real name Shang-Chi and is running from demons in his past. However, these skeletons in his closet come in the form of his father and the nefarious Ten Rings organisation which soon catch up to him. Together with his companion Katy and others he must stop his fathers misguided quest- ultimately saving the world in the process. The plot proves to be both engaging and an emotional roller coaster as Shang-Chi struggles to mend his fractured relationship with his sister Xialing. As well as this you as the viewer are taken on an enjoyable rodeo as the characters engage in thrilling action scenes which will most certainly have you on the edge of your seat.

One standout performance of the movie was the pairing of Awkwafina (Katy) and Simu Liu (Shang-Chi) who make for an enjoyable couple to watch as they transition from friendship to romance. The duo maintain a comedic aura periodically throughout giving the audience some breathing space as they watch the otherwise intense production.  Tony Leung (leader of the Ten Rings) also put in an excellent performance as the head of a sinister organisation which could topple governments on a whim. He was, in truth, blinded by love and was convincingly willing to trounce his own son in pursuit of it. Special mentions go to Ben Kingsley (Trevor Slattery) and Yuen Wah (Guang Bo) who both added to the movie in their own comedic ways. Wong’s appearance was also a pleasant surprise making sure to evaporate any feelings viewers may have of detachment from the current MCU. Overall it seems that Marvel casted their actors very well choosing the correct people to fill each role and become their characters.


Shang-Chi has seen an immensely positive reaction from critics and audiences receiving a rating of 91% and 98% respectively. The general consensus is that it is an entertaining origin story which ‘expands the MCU in more ways than one’. The films, according to audiences, does not lack any of the ‘comedy, action and emotion which Marvel’s movies are known for’

It will surely be hard to top this in any sequels marvel are planning. One thing we can be certain of though is that this is not Shang-Chi’s last appearance in the Marvel Cinematic Universe thanks to the as always entertaining end credit scene.