While this is officially the second film in phase four of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, a lot will see this new feature as the real beginning to Marvel's next era.
With a lot of new characters and worlds to encounter over the next couple of years, it is almost as if we having to reset and see this as more of a new phase one.
Right from the start, new characters, surroundings and even realms were being introduced. There was a nice mix of something new in the tone and vibe whilst still having doses of that vintage Marvel entertainment.
It wasn't until towards the end of the second act when I started to be fully on board with this world and that it could fit and play a integral part in the MCU. The development built up nicely for the final act and had me at peak investment at the right time for me to be excited about how everyone was going to be used in future installments.
Simu Liu did a great job in the lead. His charm and charisma looks to be more for TV shows than cinema. But I still felt confident in him carrying this film to the very end, and I felt he achieved that. I can definitely see him blossom as this phase goes on. Meng'er Zhang was a solid support to Liu and had an impressive physical aspect to her role and showed great skill in her action sequences to make her a believable asset to have. Awkwafina continues to make me more of a fan of hers. I was bit unsure in her early career. But as she as showed more range in her later roles, she has fitted into the tone of the MCU really well and had decent comedic relief with authentic development with Liu as well as her own story arch. I also have to mention Michelle Yeoh as she is acting royalty in my view and I'm glad her legacy has now extended into the MCU.
For our villain, I think Tony Leung did a good job. Marvel has not been the best in creating memorable villains. But I felt Leung was certainly above average. The reasons for his actions were understandable and his chemistry with Liu really helped the story.
There were a couple of nice surprise appearances from characters that I won't mention. But one certainly enhanced the comedic side to the story and nicely tied up a couple of loose ends.
As usual, the visual effects are top notch. With the added spiritual side to the story, some of the creatures were beautifully designed and mixed in seamlessly with the live action. The score by Joel P. West was a nice mix of blending that vintage blockbuster orchestral sound with an ancient Far East vibe to it.
I have to say though that I had issues with some of the pacing. There were definitely multiple moments were it dragged and slowed down. I felt like I had rebuild that investment momentum each time.
It's not an instant classic for me. But it was an enjoyable watch and it built some nice foundations for what is to come. I definitely got a vibe of a lot of similar phase one MCU films. After seeing this and knowing what is coming up next, it looks as if we may be going to the more spiritual, mystical and cosmic side of Marvel.
A final note for the expected credits scenes. There is both a mid and post credit scene. Both are worth staying for.
Rating: 7/10
