Shanghai Noon

"Shanghai Noon" is a 2000 action-comedy film that presents a unique combination of traditional Western and kung fu cinema. Directed by Tom Dey, the film stars Jackie Chan and Owen Wilson in the lead roles, following the story of Chon Wang (Chan), a Chinese imperial guard who travels to America to rescue a kidnapped princess and is aided by a small-time criminal named Roy O'Bannon (Wilson).

One of the film's strongest aspects is the dynamic between Chan and Wilson. The comedic banter between the two actors and their physical comedy are superb, delivering a continuous stream of laughs throughout the movie. Additionally, Chan's acrobatic fighting style and Wilson's more comical approach create a delightful and entertaining contrast.

The supporting cast also performs well, particularly Lucy Liu as Princess Pei Pei. Liu's portrayal adds a refreshing level of strength and toughness to her character, exhibiting her impressive martial arts and acting skills. Her fight scenes are some of the film's highlights, showcasing her range and versatility as an actress.

The blend of genres is both the film's strength and weakness. While the fusion of Western and kung fu elements adds an exciting and distinctive flavor to the film, it also results in a somewhat inconsistent tone. The humor can be uneven, and some of the action sequences feel over-the-top or out of place.

Despite its minor flaws, "Shanghai Noon" is a fun and entertaining film that blends action and comedy in a unique way. Chan and Wilson's fantastic chemistry is the highlight, and Liu's strong performance adds depth and complexity to the female character's role. Although it may not be a cinematic masterpiece, it's a solid addition to the action-comedy genre and one of the best movies of Lucy Liu, Jackie Chan, and Owen Wilson.

Release: 2000

Cast: Jackie Chan, Owen Wilson, Lucy Liu

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 80%