Matthew Mathias

Sports Editor

mcm5909@psu.edu

Marvel’s latest installment in it’s cinematic universe this past Labor Day weekend was once again a huge success. The film dropped at midnight early Friday morning with fans filling theatres for the first time since the pandemic began in March of 2020.

In fact Shang Chi destroyed a 14 year record of box office sales of a movie premiere over Labor Day weekend, reeling in over $90 million in revenue and taking down the 2007 movie “Halloween” with the new milestone.

Simu Liu had a great performance in my opinion as Shang Chi, as he showed off his polished and robust martial arts skills as well as convey the classic and light hearted comedy that is a signature of the Marvel universe. The choreography of action scenes and fights was second to none, which really helped to combat a criticism that many had about action scenes throughout the history of Marvel movies. Personally, I feel that the best filmed action in any film up to this point was probably that which occurred in Black Panther. However, Shang Chi certainly raised the bar with its ability to capture these dynamic moments.

The main villain of the movie, the Mandarin, was played by famed martial arts movie actor Tony Leung Chiu-wai. Not only was the villain in Shang-Chi well performed, but he was also well written. The Mandarin’s motives for the evil he was doing was realistic, emotionally driven and relatable to audience members. In my opinion, this is how Marvel villains are best written. Thanos was our first taste at a truly “great” villain that we have seen and I would go as far as to say that his character paved the way for how they should be written in the future.

The climax of the film was exciting and gripping as it took place in an environment with some beautiful cinematography and screenwriting. My personal favorite scene  of the film was the bus scene. I won’t say much due to spoilers, but in all honesty I was locked in for the rest of the movie after seeing this action scene. As most Marvel films have, there are several cameo’s from other stars in the cinematic universe during Shang-Chi, so watch out for them as the film carries out. 

After watching the film, I believe Shang-Chi to be a big success and would recommend it to anyone considering seeing it. However, Disney has decided to try something new with the launch of the movie. 

While the Marvel movie released earlier this year, Black Widow, was released at the same time in theatres and on Disney Plus, Shang-Chi took a different approach. Shang-Chi only is currently showing in theatres at this time and will be placed on Disney Plus about a month after premiering in theatres around the world.

With many people still doubtful and cautious about their health today, it is totally understandable if you wish to wait until it is viewable at home. Just be cautious of spoilers online. So, if you want to see the film, make sure to head out to a local movie theatre with a few of your comic book loving friends, grab some popcorn, and enjoy the show.