Movie Review: The Grandmaster

By Zachary Kilmer

Published on September 3, 2013 in THE STYLUS

The Grandmaster, a foreign film based on the life of Ip Man, Kung Fu master who trained Bruce Lee, is a strange blend of poorly paced narrative, incredible cinematography and awe-inspiring martial arts choreography.

The plot itself seems to dramatize the truth in order to seem more appealing and exciting, which resulted in many amazing fight scenes. However, the actors’ dialogue was good at best and dull at worst. The high points, the beautiful visuals and riveting Kung Fu Fights, were constantly matched with un-interesting dialogue and stiff acting.

Being a Chinese made film, originally released in January, it is understandable that the average American might be unable to engage in the storyline. Often, The Grandmaster felt like Chinese propaganda, taking much time to paint the Middle Kingdom in a positive light.

This is part of the culture, and a film released and made in China would reflect that. Nevertheless, it was difficult to pay attention whenever someone was not being kicked in the face.

That being said, the cinematography and camera work was impeccable, especially of the fight scenes. Watching the rain or snowflakes bounce off of the actors as they battled with the elegance of ballerinas was quite enjoyable. It’s one of those movies where every shot mattered and painstakingly crafted. Even the scenes with the boring dialogue were at least aesthetically pleasing.

Because of the slow pacing, cultural differences, and aforementioned narrative problems, it was difficult to follow what was actually happening in The Grandmaster. The movie consisted of people talking, an amazing fight scene, people talking and then another amazing fight scene. Rinse, lather, repeat.

The Grandmaster is a grounded movie. Although it plays up the fighting for the sake of being an action movie, it takes a very natural and down to Earth approach to telling the story of Ip Man. However, for an American audience, the artsy yet stodgy style may not blend.

This movie will almost certainly be in the running for “Best Foreign Film” at the Oscars this year. It is the Kung Fu movie equivalent of eating your broccoli.

It may be good for you, but many of us go to the cinema to consume sweet stuff, both at the concession stand and on the screen.

The Grandmaster is a fascinating and worthwhile experience. I do not regret learning about the man who trained one of the best Kung Fu legends of all time. However, be forewarned that it’s more like a documentary with some martial arts rather than Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon.

http://www.thestylus.net/movie-review-the-grandmaster-1.3055047