True Legend

True Legend is a strikingly unique blend of kung-fu meets myth meets a journey of self-discovery within a man's heart. Launched in 2010, directed by Chinese maestro Yuen Woo-Ping, and stars luminaries of Chinese cinema like Wenzhuo Zhao, Xun Zhou, and Andy On. True Legend draws us into the 19th-century world of Chinese martial arts and introduces us to the tale of the legendary folk hero, Beggar Su (Su Can).

The protagonist, Su Can (Wenzhuo Zhao), is hailed as a war hero and soon expects to revel in the envious position of provincial governor. Instead, he does the unexpected. He irrevocably refuses the honor, choosing to dedicate his time to his true love and passion – the refinement and perfection of his martial arts, running a martial arts school, and raising his family in peace. His perfect life, however, swiftly takes a tumultuous turn, driven by the revenge-seeking actions of his sinister adoptive brother, Yuan (Andy On).

The talented Xun Zhou breathes life into the character of Ying, Su's loving wife, who always stands by her husband. The intense love story between Ying and Su adds another dynamic layer to the screenplay, effectively turning the movie into more than just a prototypical martial arts film.

There's a haunting dark undertow to their seemingly idyllic family life when Yuan, feeling slighted by his martial arts master/father and seeking revenge for perceived past injustices, viciously challenges Su to a life-altering showdown. With key tips from the mythical God of Wushu and the beautiful and mysterious Drunken Immortal, Su finds himself locked in a battle of both physical prowess and spiritual mettle.

The martial arts sequences are nothing short of extraordinary. Zhao, along with the rest of the cast, performs with incredible physical agility and virtuoso style. The balletic, fast-paced fight scenes, coupled with sophisticated gravity-defying acrobatics and visually captivating special effects, make the film a dazzling spectacle from start to finish. The choreography in True Legend pairs traditional kung-fu styles that pay homage to the genre's roots with Yuen Woo-Ping's groundbreaking contemporary vision.

Yet, True Legend does not merely ride the waves of its action sequences, but also delves into the depths of a man's soul, his resilience, and his capacity to never give in, even in the face of utmost adversity. The movie captures the personal transformation of Su, seen through his trials and tribulations, and is an emotionally charged visual narrative of resilience and redemption. Through this heart-wrenching journey, Su evolves into a force of nature, a living martial arts legend - the King of Beggars, a chronicle of a man evolving into a myth.

One of the intriguing elements of True Legend lies in its ability to blur the line between the real and surreal. The film beautifully integrates elements of Chinese mythology, smoothly transitioning between stark realism and an ethereal dreamlike universe crowded with gods and spiritual guides. The intriguing interplay between the real and the imaginary further enriches the narrative.

While the movie has its dark and poignant moments, it also does not completely abandon elements of humor. The quirky, larger-than-life 'Drunken Immortal' character, who becomes Su's spiritual guide, often acts as the comedic relief amidst the otherwise intense and serious storyline. Such contrasts further serve to enrich the experience.

The direction, cinematography, and exquisite costume design enhance the visual appeal of the film by recreating China's majestic landscapes of the 19th century and the grandeur of its ancient martial cultures. Altogether, True Legend shines not only as martial arts film but also a period drama.

In conclusion, True Legend, with its tale of heroic gallantry and personal redemption, plays out like an epic, painting its vivid tapestry with swift martial arts action, emotional intensity, and mythical nuances. All of this against the high stakes human drama that makes it a real classic and enjoyable watch for martial arts and cinema lovers alike.