An American teenager who is obsessed with Hong Kong cinema and kung-fu classics makes an extraordinary discovery in a Chinatown pawnshop: the legendary stick weapon of the Chinese sage and warrior, the Monkey King. With the lost relic in hand, the teenager unexpectedly finds himself travelling back to ancient China to join a crew of warriors from martial arts lore on a dangerous quest to free the imprisoned Monkey King.
When Chan and Li match wits, each celebrates the other's presence. This isn't just a martial-arts display; it's generosity and camaraderie in motion.
– Stephanie Zacharek,
Salon.com,
18 Apr 2008
fresh:
It's difficult to resist, especially if you're a 12-year-old boy whose parents won't let you rent Once Upon a Time in China or the Kill Bill movies.
– Peter Hartlaub,
San Francisco Chronicle,
18 Apr 2008
rotten:
It might take a Zen master to explain exactly what audience this is aimed at.
– Mark Rahner,
Seattle Times,
18 Apr 2008
rotten:
Every time the focus switches to Michael Angarano channeling his inner Ralph Macchio, The Forbidden Kingdom reminds you that it's primarily an act of occidental tourism.
– David Fear,
Time Out New York,
18 Apr 2008
fresh:
One of the more entertaining movies we've seen in recent months.