Did anyone worry that the Marvel Cinematic Universe was losing its touch? Because it seems Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings may put any doubts to rest. The martial-arts-themed superhero movie had its Hollywood premiere last night, with plenty of press in attendance. And while fans at a premiere can get swept up in the enthusiasm, it’s notable that these responses read more unequivocally positive than for What If…? Here are some of the first Shang-Chi reactions.
Folks who are usually pretty enthusiastic remain so:
#shangchi is like no Marvel movie you’ve seen. Love that it opens the door to a new world that I can’t wait to see more of. @SimuLiu literally kicks so much ass and he is perfectly cast. Got to see it in @imax tonight and this is how you want to see it. Looked and sounded perfect pic.twitter.com/43SaSxfx3m
— Steven Weintraub (@colliderfrosty) August 17, 2021
#ShangChi kicked ass! Come for the killer fight scenes, dark mysticism, and martial arts mayhem, but stay for the thoughtful rumination on family, grief, and legacy.
The whole cast is terrific! Simu Liu is a superstar. Tony Leung and Michelle Yeoh are international treasures. pic.twitter.com/Rt7QAWK1T3
— Dan Casey (@DanCasey) August 17, 2021
RELATED: Simu Liu Chooses His Marvel Team-up in the Latest Shang-Chi Promos
#ShangChi is an absolute triumph, unexpectedly spiritual and emotionally complex, with some of the very best action in the MCU. @SimuLiu is your new favorite Avenger and the movie’s myriad influences (everything from Jackie Chan to Hayao Miyazaki) pay off big time). Astounding. pic.twitter.com/72Yubnb4KV
— Drew Taylor (@DrewTailored) August 17, 2021
But even those who consider themselves more reserved than usual also had fun.
There are nits to be picked, but #ShangChi is a terrifically entertaining piece of blockbuster filmmaking. It’s much better than the trailers (lots of goodies unspoiled) and is unafraid to be weird and fantastical. It is exactly the shot in the arm that Marvel and Disney needed. pic.twitter.com/b2VcSEKidU
— Scott Mendelson (@ScottMendelson) August 17, 2021
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings earns the title of the best superhero film of 2021 so far. The action scenes are simply spectacular, especially the train & skyscraper scene. Best martial arts I’ve seen in a long time. Simu Liu & Awkwafina are terrific. #ShangChi pic.twitter.com/M0EEMJqKu3
— Scott Menzel (@ScottDMenzel) August 17, 2021
Shang-Chi is a blast! Marvel delivers a wuxia/fantasy/superhero movie mash-up that’s a lot more fun than how the trailers have been selling it. Exciting action, great cast (Tony Leung rules, of course). This is the MCU back doing its thing on a high level again. #ShangChi pic.twitter.com/eW9bxF9QNB
— Aaron Neuwirth (@AaronsPS4) August 17, 2021
RELATED: Shang-Chi Premiere Confirms the MCU Return of [Spoiler]
I’m still in awe of #ShangChi I really am not a big Marvel or action movie fan but this one… I rarely have moments of “AGAIN AGAIN!” but this was the one for me. pic.twitter.com/OXFHC2UStx
— 《josephine (@josephinespeaks) August 17, 2021
In general, this reaction sums up most:
#ShangChi is fantastic. It’s full of INCREDIBLE, beautifully choreographed fight scenes and full of badass women. Get ready to know Simu Liu’s name if you don’t already. Marvel has another hit on its hands. pic.twitter.com/3efV1kzJ7O
— Kirsten (@KirstenAcuna) August 17, 2021
Seems safe to say Simu Liu is a hit with fans.
Shang-Chi And The Legend Of The Ten Rings is PHENOMENAL. Get hyped. Even fight scene/action sequence is better than the last. @SimuLiu fully embraces the marvel superhero role. Amazing imagery. Killer soundtrack. You’ll want to see this on the big screen. #shangchi
— Wendy Lee Szany (@WendyLeeSzany) August 17, 2021
One other thing to note: the film’s release date is still two weeks away. If Disney had their doubts about the film’s reception, they’d have held off the premiere until closer to Sept 3. It’s a sign of confidence that they’ve lifted the social media embargo already.
Do you feel good about these early reactions? Let us know in comments below!
Recommended Reading: Shang-Chi: Master of Kung-Fu Omnibus Vol. 2
We are also a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. This affiliate advertising program also provides a means to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.