Writer: Erny Suzira

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Watch this if you liked: “Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons”

The Good, the Bad and the Westward Journey:

Director Cheang Pou-soi certainly has improved by leaps and bounds with his latest film, "The Monkey King 2", the sequel to his previously directed "The Monkey King". It is safe to say that the current film is definitely better than its predecessor in terms of its acting, script, as well as the visual and sound effects.

"The Monkey King 2" is visually spectacular, with beautiful sceneries, colourful costumes and amazing 3D effects that are an absolute treat for the eyes. The special effects used during the action sequences are especially amazing as well, accompanied by the beautifully choreographed fight scenes.

Kudos to the costume department who have done a marvellous job on the characters' makeup and traditional outfits - especially Gong Li who is absolutely beautiful and flawless as the White-Boned Demon. Her many traditional dresses, make-up and hairstyles are elegant and stunning.

In terms of the performances of the cast, predictably Aaron Kwok has perfectly nailed his character as the cheeky yet adorable Monkey King, Sun Wu Kong. Even the rest of the cast have done justice to their respective roles by staying faithful to the characters derived from the classic Chinese novel.

Nevertheless, some parts of the film are a bit slow-paced and dreary, and the character development seems a bit rush, which is understandable as the director couldn't fit everything in a two-hour long movie.

Despite the flaws, "The Monkey King 2" is a great film to watch with the rest of the family as it is a fun classical tale with creative contemporary flair.

Trivia

• Despite being the sequel to "The Monkey King", the film tells a different story with an all-new cast. Donnie Yen played the Monkey King in the first movie.


Cinema Online, 28 January 2016