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The Man with the Iron Fists (2012)
Disappointing
As an avid fan of both kung fu movies and any project involving Tarantino, I was very much looking forward to seeing this but was sorely disappointed. First of all, for a throwback to classic kung fu movies, there was very little actual kung fu. Instead we were bombarded with over the top gore and near-comical special effects, creative but ridiculously unrealistic and impractical weapons (is this iron man 3?), cheesy one-liners and a convoluted story with an unsatisfying ending. There were far too many characters and all of their intentions were unclear, leaving us wondering who to side with until (and even at) the very end. I felt no connection to any of the characters, even RZA himself. His character was developed way too late and too hastily for me to associate him as a hero.
One thing I truly expected was at least a great story. But instead, even the simple premise the movie presented (steal the gold) had trouble getting through even despite RZA's (unnecessary) narration. The pace had much to be desired. It really felt like it was pieced together from bits and pieces of someone's imagination.. not a well thought out story.
I don't know what kind of kung fu movies RZA has been watching, but this was a slap in the face to classic kung fu cinema if anything. You could really tell it was from a westerner's perspective from the way the culture was portrayed and even the names that were used.
No offense but RZA should stick to rapping or maybe he can try comic book movies. I expected more authenticity from a kung fu enthusiast.
Some redeeming qualities were the soundtrack, which is to be expected from a very talented producer, and Lucy Liu's performance as the Madame, especially her fighting scenes.