Outcasts From The Original Return To Wreak More Havoc!
by ALAN SAMUEL
Wanting to learn is actually at the heart of Tai Chi Zero, one of the most fun experiences in any year. Presented in Canada by Variance Films this Chinese movie is a rollicking time. Pure imagination runs wild for all to see at the International Village Cinemas in downtown Vancouver.
Don’t be deterred by the English subtitles, this truly flambouyant tale reolves around one poor boy’s desire to learn martial arts. Ah, but there’s more to Yang Lu Chan’s story that meets the eye – or in his case “head.” Now a grown man, Yuan Xiaochao delights in his relentless pursuite to master Kung Fu. He sets out to a mysterious village called Chen Village but from there the story deepens considerably. Apparently the master gung fu instructor doesn’t want to teach this martial art to any outsider. Come to think of it the community is rather close-minded: no one will help Chan out. In truth, the peasants in the area rebel against him.
While this act is playing out there’s a mysterious move afoot to industrialize the area. Enter a corrupt government official or two who decide to make Chen Village an offer they can’t refuse. Led by ambitious native son Fang Zijing the village is transformed into a dark age. Eddie Peng is full value as the meak minded zealot who wants to stamp an indelible mark on the town by way of industrialization. The plan is simple: build a railroad and they will come. Unfortunately the heavy handed approach of the elite does not sit well with the peasants and all hell breaks loose.
Totallly wild and wacky, Tai Chi Zero is what the Hollywood version of the Wild Wild West movie should have been a decade ago. Here the sets are stunning, the plot totally ridiculous and the acting equally compelling. Director Stephen Fung throws everything but the kitchen sink at you in this robust affair that is smoking hot. Oh, and there are a pair of lethal lovelies that figure prominently in the trials and tribulations of both Fang and Yang with fetching Chen Yunia being a particular hot little number. Played by the appropriately named Angelbaby this femme fatale helps usher in all sorts of chaos as two men battle for her affections.
Robust action, insane jealousies and fun encounters all help make Tai Chi Zero a truly eventful movie whose cinematography and vivid expanse will blow you away.
