Martial Artistry

While I’m more inclined than many to side with Scorsese in the never-ending battle over whether or not Comic Book Movies are CINEMA, it’s pretty undeniable that they do serve a function which benefits CINEMA. Better than any Film Appreciation course at the local community center, Comic Book Movies can introduce future generations to performers and filmmakers who are undeniably associated with Scorsese Approved CINEMA.  And in a very direct way too.

Say what you will of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, but it is undeniable that it is a piece of visual entertainment, starring Hong Kong Legends Tony Leung and Michelle Yeoh, with fight scenes choreographed by the late, great Brad Allan who cut his teeth as a member of the Jackie Chan Stunt Team. This isn’t Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles giving kids a vague interest in martial arts that might eventually lead to Hong Kong Cinema. Shang-Chi establishes a direct pipeline to Wong Kar-wai, Police Story, etc.

Disclaimer: Of course violence is inherent in this particular National Cinema. The kineticism and visual ingenuity of filmmakers like John Woo, Ringo Lam, Johnnie To, et al is precisely what made the Hong Kong films of the late 80’s/early 90’s standout against the staid bombast of the Stallone and Schwarzenegger vehicles that ruled American Multiplexes at the time. It’s up to the parent what is appropriate for the child. That being said…

The perfect starting point is the action comedies of Stephen Chow, like Shaolin Soccer and Kung Fu Hustle. With that as a foundation, the most logical next step is Jackie Chan as his fights are quite playful and clearly in conversation with silent comedians like Buster Keaton who your child might already be familiar with. Of course there’s also Bruce Lee, but his fights can some times be a bit intense for younger viewers as they often end in death. Maybe check out some of his fights as Kato on the Green Hornet TV series from the 60’s? On the distaff end of the gender spectrum, Michele Yeoh and Zhang Ziyi can kick ass with the best of them, but also don’t sleep on American expat superstar Cynthia Rothrock.

The world of Action Cinema is expansive! Every country has their own action star(s) and they’re all doing amazing things that help push the language of Cinema further and further. As with comedy, you can get away with stuff in an action film that would never fly in a drama. Whether it is via YouTube clips or full feature films, your child’s cinematic development can only benefit from a (light) kick in the pants!