Marvel’s Shang-Chi is a refreshing take on the typical superhero story

By Sydni Wolpert, Staff Writer and Artist

Released in early September, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings is a new installment in “phase four” of Marvel’s cinematic universe. Notably, it is Marvel’s first Chinese cross-cultural superhero film. 

In my opinion, it is one of their best superhero movies thus far, a new favorite for sure. I loved the characters and the action; the fight scenes are filmed beautifully and with evident Chinese martial arts influence. I spent the two hours and twelve minutes of Shang-Chi just thinking, “Man, that was so cool!” over and over again.

Even if you’re not a Marvel fan, Shang-Chi is sure to entertain. Starring Simu Liu, Awkwafina, and Meng’er Zhang, the movie is a fun new superhero story and kick-butt representation of Chinese culture. Following the success of Black Panther and its African representation, it is so exciting to see Marvel continuing to produce cross-cultural films with diverse superheroes. It is so important to have diverse representation in popular media because it starts new conversations and brings society to be closer and more well-rounded as a whole. It is so empowering to see superheroes that look like you!

It is so exciting to see Shang-Chi and the Legend of The Ten Rings as one of the first movies kicking off phase four of Marvel’s Cinematic Universe! I give the movie two thumbs up and encourage you and your friends/family to watch it!