Film Review: The Monkey King 2

Introduction

• Title: The Monkey King 2
• Lead Actor: Aaron Kwok
• Director: Soi Cheang
• Source: South China Morning Post
• Published Date: February 4, 2016

General Overview

• The film is a sequel to The Monkey King (2014).
• It's a vastly improved production, focusing on a tighter narrative and better design.
• It is considered the best attempt to adapt Journey to the West into an effects-driven blockbuster.

Improvements in The Monkey King 2

• Cast and Narrative:
  • Smaller cast compared to the predecessor.
  • Tighter narrative focus enhances storytelling.
• Visual and Design:
  • Improved design elements and visual effects.
• Direction:
  • Benefit from director Soi Cheang's background in crime thrillers.

Plot Summary

• The story begins 500 years after the first film.
• Buddhist monk Xuanzang (played by William Feng Shaofeng) accidentally frees the Monkey King, Wukong, from his imprisonment.
• Aaron Kwok replaces Donnie Yen as the Monkey King.

Characters

• Wukong the Monkey King:
  • Previously portrayed by Donnie Yen, now played by Aaron Kwok.
  • Kwok brings a soulful undertone, contrasting Yen’s mischievous portrayal.
• Xuanzang:
  • Played by William Feng Shaofeng.
• Additional Cast:
  • Gong Li stars alongside.

Conclusion

• The Monkey King 2 doesn't require familiarity with the first film for appreciation.
• Aaron Kwok's performance as the Monkey King is noted as a significant improvement.
• The film marks a strong attempt to bring Journey to the West into a modern effects-driven cinema.