Ip Man

One must be in a right mood for a kung fu ride. The Chinese make their movies a bit differently than what I’m used to. Their films could be compared to a Red Bull commercial in some respect, so I went into this film with some doubts. To my surprise, Ip Man is a completely natural and realistic film about the difficult situation of kung fu during the Sino-Japanese War. From a historical point of view, it was very nice to watch, and the fighting scenes were on the verge of genius. Although it is not emotionally all that tense, it was certainly interesting. (04/01/2013)

A choreographic ode to movement (and pathos) in a kung fu bedtime story. Though I wouldn’t put it on for the kids, the wouldn’t be able to sleep afterwards. (19/05/2009)

The fifth star is mainly for Ip’s inspirational personality. Otherwise kung-fu in combination with the Second World War has to be one of the freshest topics ever, so I really enjoyed the atmosphere. Fearless is definitely more spectacular, but even so. I seriously liked it. (09/03/2011)

Conceptually and ideologically much more impressive than the action scenes. A tribute to Eastern culture, philosophy, values and martial arts. The story of a legend that could have done without the wild jumps and several metres of flying in front of the camera. But that is also part of the East. (17/10/2021)

I don't particularly like kung-fu movies (or rather not at all), but Ip Man definitely deserves my great admiration and respect. Imaginative and brisk execution, great choreography and a very likeable protagonist who is good-natured and friendly at the core, but can really kick some ass. The depiction of the Japanese occupation adds a great deal of impact to the otherwise rather weak story, and the viewer is able to form a relationship with the characters despite the fact that they have quite strange dialogue and are not brimming with much emotion. The film will probably be more appreciated by Chinese audiences, for whom the characters' actions are a matter of national pride, but even the unbiased viewer is guaranteed to have a great time. Between four and five. (26/04/2013)

In addition to having a strong political subtext and revisiting events that meant a huge historical blow to China, it is excellently combined with a kung-fu film, and a kung-fu film of the highest quality. When it comes to choreography, there are very few films in recent years that can boast similar scenes. The punches really hurt in some places. It's like the old good Hong Kong school has returned. A powerful drama, although somewhat simplistic, but above all an excellent action film with amazing fight scenes. (03/01/2014)