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Common Sense Note
Parents should know that this is an action movie with nothing but fighting and killing. There are also a couple of deaths that could be upsetting to younger kids. There is some drinking in bars and some diva-like behavior, but there are also uplifting messages about humility and honor.
Families can talk about the consequences of physical violence, the nature of humility, and the topics of national honor.
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Liz Perle
Only Jet Li and martial arts lovers need see this last Li action movie. That said, this one will certainly satisfy that audience. For his final martial arts outing, Li reverently tells the story of one of China's most revered martial artists, Huo Yuaniga.
FEARLESS is ultimately a story of redemption. When Huo's father is humiliatingly defeated in public, the young man vows to become the best kung fu fighter. But he loses his moral compass as he becomes more powerful and, much like some of today's media stars, begins to travel with a posse of devotees. But we all know pride in a hero never lasts long. When Huo kills the wrong person, his life begins to unravel.
Huo's awakening ultimately leads him to a one of those places that only really exist in action movies -- where violence becomes dignified by deep sadness and the need to defend. In this case, after feeling the true consequences of his violent ways, Huo must return to fighting -- this time for his country. Since the movie takes place when China was experiencing a veritable invasion of westerners, a metaphoric showdown with foreigners becomes the centerpiece of both the plot and Huo's redemption.
Clearly there are parallels between Huo an Li, and this infuses this movie -- which Li has claimed will be his final action feature -- with emotional resonance. If the audience pays attention to something beyond the really excellent martial arts, they'll see Li's messages about the nature of violence and humility.
Beautifully choreographed, the movie is plenty violent. People are killed, including some sympathetic characters.
People who enjoy Li's action movies might also like Hero, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, and House of Flying Daggers.
Rate It!
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ViolenceCharacters are injured and killed. Intense martial arts. |
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LanguageBrief strong language, but nothing too bad. |
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Social BehaviorAlthough there's lots of violence, ultimately the movie is about overcoming violence. |
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Drug/Alcohol/TobaccoSome drinking and bar scenes. |
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