In today’s excerpt from the classic “Once Upon a Time in China,” GameK introduces readers to a thrilling action sequence featuring the renowned character Wong Fei-hung, brought to life by the legendary actor Jet Li. This piece showcases the incredible martial arts skills depicted in the series, which has solidified Jet Li’s reputation as a superstar in the film industry.
Jet Li vs Donnie Yen
The thrilling excerpt you just watched is from the film “The Legend of the Drunken Master,” which is the sequel to the iconic “Once Upon a Time in China.” Produced by Hong Kong cinema, it features Jet Li in the leading role.
The scene is set during a time when Wong Fei-hung is desperately trying to escape from the oppressive Qing Dynasty officials, led by the villainous character played by Donnie Yen. This is the first cinematic confrontation between Jet Li and Donnie Yen, and it was later followed by their iconic showdown in the movie “Hero,” released in 2002.
In addition to the captivating action sequences, this excerpt also highlights the dire socio-political conditions of China during the late Qing Dynasty: a crumbling imperial regime, widespread poverty, and social unrest fueled by various Western forces, leaving the populace in despair.
Alongside the main character Wong Fei-hung, “The Legend of the Drunken Master” also vividly portrays two famous revolutionary figures from Chinese history: Lu Haodong and Sun Zhongshan, played by the talented actor Tony Leung. Like a painting capturing the tumultuous landscape of late Qing China, the film encapsulates the social tensions between the rigid Qing Dynasty and the struggling populace, highlighting the collision of traditional values and modern revolutionary ideas.
Not only has this film elevated Jet Li’s status as a superstar in the global film industry, but the “Once Upon a Time in China” series has also received critical acclaim for its artistic value, technical execution, and the depth of its storytelling.
