Chinese Film Festival: Ip Man & Ip Man 2
Ip Man
A modern genre classic if ever there was one, 2008’s Ip Man, which simultaneously parallels China’s occupation during WW2 and the titular grandmaster’s rise to folk hero status, has all the elements to satisfy audiences both Eastern and Western. And if you think about it: that’s a bloody rare occurrence!
It’s also, finally, cements Donnie Yen as the world’s premier Ass-kicker. Rightly so, as his performance, physical and otherwise, as the introverted Wing Chun expert is subtle yet evocative and powerful.
The rest of the film stands up equally well, with touching performances, a sympathetic plight, a sweeping narrative and a dozen or so, immaculately crafted fight sequences.
Ip Man 2
As too often is the case with sequels, following a year’s worth of critical and financial success, the inevitable follow-up seems to lose the run of itself completely.
Ip Man 2 isn’t quite that bad, to be honest, it’s rather good, but sadly in comparison to its predecessor, it’s of substantially lower quality. Ironic considering how time should have honed Ip Man’s skills…
The dialogue, the characters, the story and the action, they’re all fine (most of the time) but it’s hard to shake the feeling you’re watching a rushed product that concentrates more on beating you around the head with anti-western propaganda than telling a punchy* tale.
Not that I’m against said propaganda, just it could have been presented with a little more polish.
*(Pun Intended)
Jack McGlynn
The Chinese Film Festival runs from Friday 4th February until Sunday 13th February. For further information visit www.dublin.ie/cny
