Ip Man (The sickest Kung Fu Movie of 2009): Review

Well the title to my review says it all. First, some background, this is a “period” piece set in the late 1800′s early 1900′s. It’s the story of one of kung fu’s legendary Sifus (masters), Bruce Lee’s first kung fu teacher Ip Man(Yip Man), a legendary practitioner of the style known as Wing Chun, a variation of the snake and crane styles of kung fu, a very powerful style developed by a female nun at the Shaolin Temple that focuses on “in” fighting or close quarters fighting.

Now in relation to this there have only been two standout films that showcased this fighting style “Warriors Two” and “Prodigal Son” both directed by Hong Kong kung fu film superstar Sammo Hung, Fast forward to last year he decides to direct another classic in “Ip Man”. The movie is mainly about Ip Man and the trials and tribulations that come with being a top fighter while trying to teach wing chun to the poorest of his people during the Japanese occupation. When you combine this with who I consider to be the best Martial artist of my generation, Donnie Yen (Iron Monkey, Hero, Dragon-Tiger Gate) in the lead and watch the action unfold. Ok, I know, Tony Jaa is THE TRUTH but Donnie is better, just watch the movie “Flashpoint” which gets my vote for one of the sickest end fights ever between him and Ngai Sing (Seraph of the Matrix movies),mma moves, kung fu and straight up brawling all in one scene. A winning combo of actor, director and source material means nothing if not taken seriously, well this is and what you get is the all around best martial arts film of the year, no if ands or buts. This film has it all, tons of reeeally good fight scenes, beautiful cinematography and a good story. With “Ip Man” you can’t go wrong, Miramax may release a dubbed version to the theaters soon, with Dragon Dynasty releasing the DVD. I’m summing this up quickly ’cause I want you to see it and be blown away. Seek this one out fans, it delivers…There’s already going to be two sequels, one just wrapped shooting.

Rating: (9/10)

Sir M

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