The Throwdown Continues|Oct. 25, 2012|China|100 Min.|Not Rated
Genre: Action;Adventure
Description: “Tai Chi Hero,” the 2012 sequel to “Tai Chi Zero,” continues the hyper-stylized martial arts action that fans loved in the first film. Directed by Stephen Fung, this second installment in a planned trilogy delivers spectacular visuals but struggles with its storytelling. The narrative follows Lu Chan (Jayden Yuan), a martial arts prodigy whose skills awaken when a specific spot on his head is triggered. Now married to Yuniang (Angelababy), the daughter of the village leader (Tony Leung Ka Fai), Lu Chan faces new challenges when Yuniang’s brother (Feng Shaofeng) returns with a grim prophecy about an outsider causing the town’s destruction. This prophecy turns the villagers against Lu Chan, while an old enemy (Eddie Peng) allies with a corrupt British railroad tycoon (Peter Stormare) to launch a ruthless attack.
The film is packed with high-energy action sequences featuring slow-motion effects, gravity-defying stunts, and video game-inspired visuals. These scenes, choreographed by Hong Kong action legend Sammo Hung, are thrilling but can feel overwhelming due to their intensity. While the plot may lack depth, “Tai Chi Hero” excels as a visual spectacle, making it a treat for fans of stylized martial arts cinema. The film’s focus on action and aesthetics ensures an entertaining, if somewhat exhausting, experience. Known as “Tai Ji 2: Ying Xiong Jue Qi” in Chinese, it’s a continuation of the trilogy’s unique blend of martial arts and modern cinematic flair.
Cast director: Stephen Fung Tak-Lun
Cast actor: Jayden Yuan, Tony Leung Ka-fai, Eddie Peng, AngelaBaby, William Fung Kwun-Man, Daniel Wu, Patrick Tse Yin, Yuen Biao, Peter Stormare, Yuan Wenkang
Original name: 太極２ 英雄崛起