The Legend is Born - Ip Manby Sheena McNeilReviews may contain information that could be considered 'spoilers'. Readers should proceed at their own risk. Studio
Credits Grade: 9 This movie portrays the events in the life of Wing Chun (a style of kung fu) master Ip Man — the same man who, in real life, went on to train Bruce Lee. It follows his earlier years showing us when he and his adopted brother join the kung fu school, going to college in Hong Kong, learning a less Orthodox version of Wing Chun from the original master's son, falling in love and saving the kung fu school from the Japanese and inner-treachery.This movie is a must-see for any martial arts fan. Whether you train in martial arts, just appreciate it or just like to watch movie with martial arts action, this movie is great. While some liberties with the true story are taken, this movie follows his life closer than some other versions. Dennis To is wonderful as Ip Man. He has the look, the confidence, the skill and that quiet yet strong presence that makes this character so real. My favorite part of the whole movie is when he gets his butt kicked by Leung Bik. Leung Bik is played by Ip Chun, and he is hilarious and endearing. You can't help but love him and his attitude. He has some of the best lines in the movie. He has much wisdom to give through the few words and actions we see. If he was in more of the movie, he'd steal the show. I mean, Leung Bik is shorter than Ip Man and still kicks him in the head! Another really neat fight scene is the blindfolded match between the school's master and his to student. It is truly amazing. The first real fight scene for Ip Man is in the marketplace, and it's a lot of fun to watch. They even use a bench seat as a weapon. Plus, the lovely Cheung Wing-shing is able to assist in the fight (also using things around her) without knowing any kung fu. She becomes Ip Man's love interest, and it's a perfect match from the beginning. They overcome the obstacles that Ip Man's friends place in their way. Lee Mei-wai is the other main female in this movie, and she does know kung fu — not that we get to see her really use it. Both women are overly lovestruck, making them mopey when Ip Man's not there and, in Lee's case, bitter, angry and tearful with jealousy. However, Cheung shows backbone that you have to admire (and make her even more of an ideal match for Ip Man), while Lee just turns rather pathetic. If you don't know any history, the twist at the end is a bit surprising. Leading up to it, you think it's going to be one thing, and it actually builds on that thing for a more painful twist. This movie is definitely one for the collection as it's wonderful to watch and rewatch. It's a bit of history while telling a great story of an impressive individual. Don't miss it. Written: December 2, 2011
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