Don't Believe the Hype

Yo, there's no way for me to review this film without saying, take your *insert ethnicity + "ass" here* to see this film,like now. You have to see it in order to know what you're really messing with.

A terrific literary drama and character piece that shows how the process of creating art can be seen differently by those doing it and those looking at it from the outside.

A terrific literary drama and character piece that shows how the process of creating art can be seen differently by those doing it and those looking at it from the outside.

I have always had a fascination with fantastical time travel scenarios, where someone from the past is thrust into the present, inevitably resulting in action sequences where ancient weapons and skills are matched by modern technology. Greatly dissimilar to other features, Iceman (not to be mistaken for The Iceman) could have potentially taken an approach comparative to the film Highlander, a number of the narrative's decisions failing to effectively work.Donnie Yen portrays Ying, an honorable soldier in the Emperor's army during the Ming Dynasty. Tasked with acquiring an ancient artifact, with the capacity to travel through time, he is framed for murder and treason, during which he, and his adversaries, are trapped beneath an avalanche of snow. Miraculously, Ying is awoken in the twenty first century from prolonged hibernation, caused by this event. An explanation regarding this is never provided, however, it is at the same time unnecessary, the film's pace relying more on action, than on rationalization.Ying finds himself in the middle of a conspiracy that includes a number of powerful individuals, their involvement, and the lengths of its influence, never been entirely fleshed out. Unfortunately, Ying is not the only soldier awoken, with his adversaries prowling the streets as well, in the hopes of not only acquiring the legendary artifact, but on obtaining their long sought revenge. The skills of these ruthlessly trained soldiers of old are impressive, none in the twenty first century having the ability to match their strength. At the same time though, the action sequences are potentially not as frequent as you might imagine. Though short lived, the action scenes offer the viewer some outstanding imagery that is as entertaining as it is well executed.During his initial few hours of awakening, Ying bumps into May (Shengyi Huang), who, in a drunken stupor, unwittingly invites him into her life. The misadventures Ying encounters while attempting to adjust to the new world with May, alongside the personal problems she is dealing with, offers the film both drama and heart, not to mention its most beautiful feature. Ms. Huang's performance generates a vulnerable character, as intelligent as she is uncertain, and as beautiful as she is in need of saving, though she does prove herself to be a very capable young woman. The friendship, trust and feelings generated between these two characters makes for an impressive story in itself, though at times, this exceptional subplot is lost between the film's attempts at humor.Although Iceman is, categorically, an action film, the combined humor refuses to cooperate with the seriousness of the plot, and therefore causes a number of conversations and stereotypical slapstick moments to feel dramatically out of place. There's a moment when Ying produces explosive feces, and another occasion when he's flatulent in an elevator, and let's not forget the crude humor surrounding a certain part of the male anatomy. Strangely enough, a number of these latter references are logically incorporated, although why the filmmakers didn't attempt to use references that were not quite as peculiarly vulgar, is unknown. This illogical immaturity is irresponsibly childish in a film clearly directed towards older audiences.Lastly, the final moments of Iceman prove to be as stirring as they are eye catching, and though no conclusion is offered, this climatic finish will definitely leave you on the edge of your seat. By the time the film comes to a close however, is it too late to reel in viewers for further adventures? Here's hoping the potential sequels focus more on drama and action, rather than on, what can only be described as, painfully obtuse humor.

The Hong Kong Captain America puts on a good show, but leaves us either on the hook for a sequel, or scratching our heads wondering if Graham Chapman wasn't on the scripting staff.Lots of things to like about this movie, including; Donnie Yen, humor, good action, and some excellent cinematography. While the ending is somewhat unsatisfactory if this turns out to be a one-off movie,the producers are obviously trying for a Bourne Identity sort of franchise here, and I hope they succeed in making it.Lots of good work on display here. If the sequel gets made and meets the same standard, it would easily bump this rating up a point or two, and more importantly, revive interest in and sales of the original product. It has all the makings of a classic, except a complete storyline.

Wing-cheong Law directed "Iceman" is a blended fantasy/sci-fi film that plays heavily on the classic Hong Kong action/fight set-up. The story takes on the cryogenic tech concept by having ancestors of almost godly stature and brings them to the 21st century in a light- hearted, cut-n-copy style that Hong Kong cinema is famous for. I love the theatrics of Asian cinema. Maybe it is because, due to subtitles, I place my focus on emotion, body language and facial reactions. I skim read the subtitled dialog-often times the translation is brutal."Iceman" has a fun, and yet intense story that begs for cool fight sequences choreographed flawlessly. I didn't totally get the grandeur that surrounds these figures-who obviously have mastered the teachings so well they have transcended into "godhood". However the scenes are so strong, with a balance of melodrama, humor and action. The story does capitalize on the expected components that make up modern action films from China, it almost mirrors the set up of Japanese anime series. The characters, although a bit cliché, offer a collection of comic relief, romantic interlude, and tons of dramatic inflection. All in a blended cultures piece that brings the past into the present. The special effects and sound in "Iceman" are standard blends of CGI heavy sequences and choreographed fight stuff. I have learned that Asian cinema is one area where tolerance of CGI is just mandated in order to get into films from this market. It is okay as long as enough practical effects are added to balance it out. Which in "Iceman" actually works to do just that. Everything about the various techniques used add to the melodrama and excitement. The soundtrack and sound effects are standard mill stuff so that was a bummer. Most was instrumental melodies that felt familiar. It works but it does real propel the story to that extra level of suspense or thrills. Overall "Iceman" is a decent action/fantasy film with plenty of fights and drama. I am not sure if it is truly a strong piece because some of the material didn't connect with me personally. I enjoyed watching this film but I have seen better films similar to this one come out of Hong Kong. Still the cinematography and production value is stellar. The flat areas for me are the humanizing scenes of character relationship/ dialog interaction moments that are intended to build up the characters so that they more personable dimension, but really just creates drag on the action and thrills a bit too much. Again – I liked "Iceman" but I am not sure if it will be strong enough for the die-hard Asian cinema fan.

Honestly, I was tricked by the previous review hence i thought the movie was really bad and I went into the theater with zero expectations. But the results... were simply. Amazing. Another classic Chinese martial arts movie which will continue to be remembered for generations to come.This movie is not your typical Donnie Yen ass-kicking movie, this is a movie with a lot of feelings, touching yet Comedic. The whole cinema was laughing every few minutes and the actions were impeccable. The last fight scene is easily one of the best action scenes in the past 3 - 4 years of Movies.Donnie Yen has to pretend to be a Ming Dynasty warrior trying to fit into our 21st century, but obviously he is way too powerful physically and has to learn the ropes of adapting, and this has led to many funny moments throughout the movie. The ending in particular was very exciting, and then..boom, something unexpected happens, a plot twist and it becomes really touching where I can see people in the audience tearing.Definitely a must watch!Note: There is a part 2 coming out in October!