Once Upon a Time in China
7.1/10
Rating
134 min
Runtime
1991
Release Year
Tsui Hark
Director
Cast
Jet Li, Yuen Biao, Jacky Cheung Hok-Yau, Rosamund Kwan Chi-Lam, Kent Cheng Jak-Si
Quick Synopsis
Set in late 19th-century Canton, the film follows Wong Fei-Hung, a renowned martial artist who confronts the encroachment and exploitation by foreign powers including the English, French, and Americans. When Aunt Yee returns from America having adopted Western customs, Wong takes on the responsibility of protecting her and their community. This challenge intensifies as his martial arts school and the local militia become engaged in violent conflicts with both foreign forces and local authorities. Amid the rising tensions, Aunt Yee begins to question her Westernized beliefs, while Wong faces the difficult reality of defending their people using traditional Kung Fu against modern weaponry.
Detailed Synopsis of Once Upon a Time in China
In late 19th-century Canton, legendary hero Wong Fei-Hung battles foreign forces' (English, French and American) plundering of China. When Aunt Yee returns from America totally westernised, Wong assumes the role of protector. This proves difficult when his martial arts school and local militia become involved in fierce battles with foreign and local governments. As violence escalates, even Aunt Yee has to question her new western ideals, but is it possible to fight guns with Kung Fu?
