Welcome back to the next movie review, and first of this new school year of Loungin’ With Lara! This week, I have viewed and reviewed Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. This article is a part of my Marvel movies series, where I watch the movies, and give them a review.

What is Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings?

Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings is a movie about Shang-Chi and how he must confront his past he thought that he had left behind, when he is immediately drawn into the Ten Rings. The movie takes place in around 2023, taking place right after the occurence of Avengers: Endgame. It was released in 2021 and was directed by Destin Daniel Cretton. A well-known actress in the movie is Awkwafina, who is seen in things such as: Ocean’s 8, Crazy Rich Asians, and Raya and the Last Dragon. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings can be streamed on Disney + with purchase, and in theaters as of now. It is rated PG-13. This movie is action-filled, with beautiful cinematography, and representation of culture. 

Why I recommend to watch Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings

This was my first Marvel movie in theaters where I was caught up with the entire universe, and let me tell you, it was worth it! From the start the cinematography, the locations of filming, the CGI were beautiful. It made me wish I was in the universe. This movie also goes more in depth to something we see in the Iron Man movies, which provides us with a backstory of how it all started and how the organization is continuing today. It was nice because having a backstory helps you better connect the stories and see things from different perspectives. The friendships and relationships between characters in this movie are inspiring. Two siblings went a very long time without seeing each other, and came together stronger than ever to win a battle they were faced with. There was also a friendship that we were introduced to that turned into a strong relationship by the end of the movie, which was adorable. There is a strong representation of Chinese culture in the movie, showing both the traditional and modern culture. Overall, I enjoyed this movie a lot and recommend it to someone who is looking for a movie filled with action and empowerment. 

My Review on Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings

(Spoilers Ahead: If you have not seen the movie, watch it before you read my review. If you have seen the movie, feel free to leave you opinions on the movie in the comments!)

I really enjoyed this movie overall. The movie had such a strong message and beautiful scenery that kept me hooked from the start. The characters made you smile and that you wind up adoring them. Shang-Chi and Katy were my favorite duo. Their humor cracked me up, not to mention the strong bond between the two that only grew stronger throughout the movie. I thought it was interesting how they had Xu Wenwu as the Mandarin in this universe, while the one from Iron Man 3 played Trevor, but I liked that story line. Not to mention, the Trevor and Morris duo. Morris, whom I thought was adorable, was actually extremely helpful with helping them get to Ta Lo after driving through the closing forest. Another part I loved was the huge battle at the end with the beautiful dragon that Shang-Chi and Xialing rode. Speaking of Xialing, she was my favorite character. I loved her power and precision. She is a strategic fighter and was almost undefeatable in battle. Though it was tough to watch the father struggle with what he was hearing in his head relating to the mother, it was very exciting to watch Shang-Chi receive those rings. I am excited for the future of his character and to see where Marvel goes with this in the future.