Once Upon a Time in China

In late nineteenth century Guangzhou a physician and martial arts master trains a militia. At the same time foreign companies are taking over the port and trafficking people. The film sets its fights inside a historical account: the hero's real problem is not a rival but that traditional methods are inadequate against firearms. The narrative says so plainly and carries it to the close. Tsui Hark directed, with Jet Li in the lead. It grew into a long series drawn from the real figure of Wong Fei-hung. The fight using ladders and umbrellas became famous. Who it's for: those who like Hong Kong martial arts cinema and action with historical ground. Who it's not for: viewers looking for something short; it runs over two hours with many side threads.