The legend has arrived.|Aug. 11, 2023|China|92 Min.|PG
Genre: Adventure;Animation;Comedy;Family;Fantasy
Description: The Monkey King 2023 is a Chinese fantasy action film directed by Soi Cheang and starring Aaron Kwok, Lin Gengxin, and Xuan Lu. Based loosely on the classic Chinese novel *Journey to the West*, the movie follows Sun Wukong, a rebellious monkey imprisoned under a mountain for 500 years. After being freed by the Tang monk Xuanzang, the two embark on a journey to India to obtain sacred Buddhist scriptures. Along the way, they face numerous challenges, including demons, monsters, and forces of evil.
Released in China on January 21, 2023, the film received mixed reviews. Critics praised its visual effects and action sequences but criticized its slow pacing and lack of originality. The story begins with Sun Wukong’s release from imprisonment, as he joins Xuanzang on a perilous adventure. Their journey is fraught with external dangers and internal conflicts, as Sun Wukong’s recklessness clashes with Xuanzang’s caution.
Despite these obstacles, they eventually succeed in retrieving the scriptures and are rewarded by the gods. The Monkey King 2023 offers stunning visuals and exciting action, but its slow narrative and unoriginal plot may leave some viewers unimpressed. While it may appeal to fans of Chinese fantasy, others might find it lacking in depth and innovation.
Cast director: Anthony Stacchi
Cast actor: Jimmy O. Yang, Bowen Yang, Jolie Hoang-Rappaport, Jo Koy, Ron Yuan, Hoon Lee, Stephanie Hsu, Andrew Pang, Andrew Kishino, Jodi Long
Original name: The Monkey King