I believe there´s an underlying theme to this film from legendary action director Yuen Woo-Ping and likewise, writers Wong and Lee. Hong Kong has been the scene of many demonstrations, and recently, against the Beijing government. But since the last century, especially in Post-WW II Hong Kong, where this film takes place, sometime in the 1950s, we already see the exploitation of the British and other Western countries.

Thus, it´s not only a hit-and-punch movie but rather a protest of how Hong Kong wants to be left alone from colonizers and tyrants. It's that kind of freedom every person and country wants--to be freed from the shackles of oppressors.

The film draws on a stellar cast (Michelle Yeoh, Dave Bautista, Tony Jaa, and Max Zhang) and is about the IP MAN universe. Following his defeat by Master Ip, Cheung Tin Chi (Zhang), tries to make a life with his young son in Hong Kong, waiting tables at a bar that caters to expats.  But it’s not long before the mix of foreigners, money, and triad leaders draw him once again to the fight.

© 2019 Ed Farolan