DIRECTED by Stanley Tong, A Legend is the 2024 sequel to the beloved 2005 film The Myth. An action-packed fantasy film, it transports audiences to a world where dreams and reality intertwine.
With Jackie Chan at the helm, this movie delivers exactly what fans of the genre crave: breathtaking action, a well conceived storyline and a touch of humour that keeps the adventure light-hearted and entertaining.
Rooted in history and fantasy
The story follows Prof Fang, an archaeologist who discovers that the texture of artefacts found by his students during a glacier expedition closely resembles a jade pendant from his dreams.
This uncanny connection between his dreams and the relics sets the stage for an unbelievable journey deep into the Glacier Temple. Alongside his assistant Wang Jing, Prof Fang embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind these mysterious dreams.
The film smoothly weaves together two timelines: the present day expedition led by Prof Fang and the historical narrative of the Han Dynasty, in which Prof Fang and Wang Jing are transformed into courageous generals battling to protect their nation. This one dual storyline adds depth to the plot, allowing viewers to experience the excitement of modern-day exploration and the grandeur of ancient battles.
Strong and magnetic characters
Chan, as always, delivers a charismatic and action-packed performance. His portrayal of Prof Fang and Zhao Zhan is infused with the trademark energy and humour that fans have come to expect from the legendary actor. Chan’s ability to perform his stunts and bring a sense of authenticity to the action scenes is nothing short of impressive.
Lay Zhang, playing Wang Jing andHua Jun, complements Chan’s performance with youthful vigour and determination. His character’s transformation from a diligent assistant to a fierce general is believable and compelling.
Gulnezer Bextiyar as Princess Mengyun adds a layer of elegance and strength to the film, portraying a character who is skilled in martial arts and medicine.
The supporting cast, including Aarif Rahman Lee as the shaman expert and Hun prince as well as Li Chen as the loyal friend Lei Zhen, provide additional layers to the narrative, making the film rich with intriguing characters and relationships.
Spectacular action and visuals
A Legend excels in its action sequences, which are thrilling and visually stunning. The battles set in the Han Dynasty are choreographed with precision and flair, showcasing the skills of the actors and the meticulous direction of Tong. The juxtaposition of ancient warfare with modern-day exploration creates a dynamic viewing experience that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.
The visual effects used to depict the Glacier Temple and the dream sequences are top-notch, adding a fantastical element that enhances the overall atmosphere of the film. The blending of practical effects and CGI creates a believable world where dreams and reality collide.
Friendship and destiny
At its core, A Legend is a story that transcends time and space. The friendship between Zhao Zhan and Princess Mengyun, which begins in the Han Dynasty and continues into the present through Prof Fang’s dreams, is the emotional anchor of the film. Their friendship, fraught with challenges and obstacles, adds a poignant layer to the action-packed narrative.
The film explores themes of destiny and the idea that certain connections are meant to be, no matter the time or place. This element, combined with thrilling action and historical intrigue, makes A Legend a well-rounded film that appeals to a wide audience.
Minor imperfections
While A Legend is an entertaining and visually captivating film, it does have its shortcomings. The 130-minute runtime feels slightly lengthy, with some scenes dragging on longer than necessary. A more concise edit could have tightened the pacing, making the narrative even more gripping. Additionally, the complexity of the dual timelines may be confusing for some viewers, especially those who are not familiar with the original film The Myth. However, these minor issues do not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the film.
Quintessential fantasy action film
A Legend is a movie that is good in its league. It delivers everything fans of fantasy action films could hope for epic battles, historical intrigue and a story that spans centuries. Chan’s performance is, as always, a highlight.
For those who appreciate a blend of history, fantasy and action, this film is a treat. The captivating storyline, stellar cast and breathtaking visuals make A Legend a film that transports viewers to another world, offering an escape that is thrilling and heartwarming.
A Legend is showing in cinemas.
DIRECTOR: Stanley Tong
CAST: Jackie Chan, Lay Zhang, Guli Nazha, Aarif Rahman Lee, Li Chen, Kim Hee-seon
E-VALUE: 7
ACTING: 7
PLOT: 7
