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Tai-Chi Master
太极张三丰
1993 96 min Hong Kong R 16+
★7.2
Action, Comedy, Drama, Thriller
Director: Yuen Woo-Ping
Trailers
Description
Falsely accused for cheating in a martial arts competition, two boyhood friends are banished from their Shaolin Temple and go their separate ways. As adults, they join opposing sides in a civil war. When one betrays the other, they settle their differences mano-a-mano.
Worldwide:
$652,527
Starring
Jet Li
Actor
Michelle Yeoh
Actor
Siu-Ho Chin
Actor
Awards
2 nominations total
Key opinion
Tai Chi Master is widely regarded as a classic of the genre, anchored by Jet Li and Michelle Yeoh’s exceptional martial arts prowess. While the narrative follows familiar tropes of friendship and betrayal, it remains a beloved and soulful entry in 1990s Hong Kong cinema.
| Acting | Jet Li and Michelle Yeoh deliver flawless, highly skilled martial arts performances that anchor the film's appeal. | |
| Direction | Yuen Woo-ping’s direction blends dynamic, precise stunt work with an interesting exploration of character morality. | |
| Screenplay | The narrative relies on ubiquitous, well-worn tropes regarding friendship, honor, and betrayal to drive its emotional arc. | |
| Originality | The film utilizes fantastical, wire-reliant combat stunts that prioritize visual immersion over grounded realism. |