Forbidden Kingdom rightfully reigns!

Two weeks ago, I have seen this movie alone. I knew very well that I will enjoy it because I am a Jet Li fan. Though I never liked Jacki Chan’s comic antics, I managed to be overwhelmed by the movie’s great display of fighting scenes.  I am glad that it was not just another Jacki Chan movie with my favorite, the talented Mr. Li as the supporting character.  Both actors had equal share of movie minutes to showcase their acting and fighting prowess.

The script was tailor fit for both actors.  I could not imagine Mr. Chan playing the role of Mr. Li or vice versa or any Asian actor for that matter.  Maybe the writer/s thought of the actors first before coming up with the script.  Where the film failed I think is in its efforts to impress the American viewers. In that way, the film lost much of its local Chinese flavor. It was really made too Hollywood-ish.  They refused to simply settle on the bankability of its lead actors. (I can’t help but admire how Ang Lee retained the beauty of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, and still, won the hearts of the American viewing public.)  Other than that, Forbidden Kingdom rightfully reigns in my favorite list and so in the box-office!

I hope to see more Jet Li films, whether ala Hero or Fearless. He remains to be The One for me even without Jacki Chan around. Told you, I am a solid Let Li fan.