Movie spotlight
Taoist Master : Kylin
Chen Cheng’s Taoist Master: Kylin is the quick fire sequel to Wu Yingxiang’s Taoist Master (released just a few months ago, already online), with Fan Siu Wong returning in the role of Zhang Taoling, the founder of the first organized form of Taoism, flanked by his disciple (Li Lubing, also returning). This time, Master Zhang arrives in a village near Mount Yun Jing, where Kylin, the legendary God of the Mountain, is rumored to prey on hunters and those foolhardy enough to venture into the mountain. While Taoist Master was on the higher end of Chinese direct-to-VOD films, this sequel is disappointingly average: it lacks the refreshing presence of Zhang Dong (who played a feisty huntress in the first film), it’s criminally low on fight scenes (one of the original’s strong suits), and the plot is the usual thudding supernatural set-up resolved with the censorship-placating hallucination card.
Insights
Plot Summary
In a mystical ancient world, a skilled Taoist master known as Kylin is tasked with protecting a sacred artifact from falling into the wrong hands. He must confront formidable enemies and overcome treacherous trials, utilizing his extraordinary martial arts prowess and wisdom to safeguard peace and balance.
Critical Reception
Taoist Master: Kylin received a mixed to positive reception, particularly praised for its action choreography and visual effects within its budget. While some critics found the plot to be somewhat predictable, audiences generally enjoyed the classic martial arts elements and the performances of its lead actors.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its elaborate and well-executed fight sequences.
Noted for its visually appealing fantasy setting and special effects.
Some found the narrative to be less engaging than the action.
Google audience: Information not available.
Fun Fact
The film heavily draws on traditional Chinese mythology and Taoist philosophy, aiming to blend these elements with modern action filmmaking techniques.
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