Chen Zhen: The Tokyo Fight is a high-powered martial arts epic that is both action-packed and full of mystery and romance with a stormy drama of societal discord in the background. The strong side of the film is that the fight scenes are dynamic, and the character of the film Chen Zhen is presented as a strong hero who struggles against oppression. The story is a good reflection of the conflict of the cultural conflicts and political intrigues that engages the audience in a tale of bravery and struggle. Human element in the turmoil is provided by the romance between Chen Zhen and his Japanese peer Hirota Yamada that provides the story with emotional background besides the fights.
The movie is visually adrenaline pumping with martial arts choreography and well played fight scenes that demonstrate the ability and will of Chen Zhen. The action is paced in a brisk way with alternating the action with some moments of introspection and long-term planning. The design of production and the camera work gives the sense of a time of political instability, and the contrast between the personal ambitions of the characters and society as a whole. This tone is paired with the score that makes the moment more tense and puts an emphasis on the perseverance of the hero.
Nevertheless, the storyline is sometimes inclined to the familiar themes of revenge and conspiracy, and certain character progressions seem hasty or underdeveloped. The villainy depicted by the Black Dragon Society is strong enough, yet sometimes the emphasis on the action as a part of the story takes away the more emotional or character-oriented viewpoints. Nevertheless, the aspect that struck me most was the spirit of Chen Zhen and his struggle to ethically reveal the corruptness that left me impressed by his strength in the face of a large army. All in all, “Chen Zhen: The Tokyo Fight” is an exciting martial arts adventure, which glorifies the heroism and strength of integrity.
