Once Upon a Time in China 1991
“Never was a Hero needed more...”
- Status
- Released
- Runtime
- 134 minutes
- Director
- Tsui Hark
- Networks
- Paragon Films, Orange Sky Golden Harvest
- Where to Stream
- HBO Max Amazon Channel, YouTube TV, Criterion Channel
What is Once Upon a Time in China?
"Once Upon a Time in China" is a film set in late 19th-century Canton. The story revolves around the legendary hero Wong Fei-Hung, who battles foreign forces that are plundering China.
- Type
- Film
- Year
- 1991
- Status
- Released
- Runtime
- 134 minutes
- Release date
- Aug 15, 1991
- Original language
- CN
- Origin
- Hong Kong
- Studios
- Paragon Films, Orange Sky Golden Harvest
- Revenue
- $3,826,459
- Genres
- Action, Drama
- Updated
At a glance
- Rating
- ★ TMDB users: 7.1/10 from 490 votes
- Episode runtime
- ~134 minutes
- Status
- Released
- Networks
- Paragon Films, Orange Sky Golden Harvest
Where to watch in United States
Stream
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Trailer
Overview
"Once Upon a Time in China" is a film set in late 19th-century Canton. The story revolves around the legendary hero Wong Fei-Hung, who battles foreign forces that are plundering China. These foreign forces are composed of English, French, and American individuals. Wong's role as a protector becomes complicated when his martial arts school and local militia become involved in fierce battles with foreign and local governments. The escalating violence forces even those who have adopted Western ideals, such as Wong's Aunt Yee, who returns from America westernized, to question their values. The film explores the conflict between using traditional Kung Fu and facing the threat of guns.
Should you watch it?
“Legendary Wong Fei‑Hung defends 19th‑century Canton from foreign invaders with his Kung Fu.”
- Spectacular martial‑arts choreography
- Rich late‑Qing historical backdrop
- Compelling clash of tradition and modernity
- Violent fight scenes may be intense
- Historical and cultural references may be unfamiliar to some
Watch it if you enjoy period martial‑arts epics that pit tradition against foreign intrusion.
The film features graphic combat and themes of colonial conflict, making it best suited for adult viewers.
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Frequently asked questions
Who is the central hero of the story?
The legendary martial artist Wong Fei‑Hung leads the defense of Canton.
When does the story take place?
It is set in late 19th‑century Canton during a period of foreign encroachment.
Which foreign nations are shown as aggressors?
English, French and American forces are depicted as plundering China.
What dilemma does Aunt Yee experience?
She must reconcile her newly adopted western ideals with the traditional values of her homeland.
Does the film explore the conflict between firearms and kung fu?
Yes, it questions whether guns can be fought with traditional Kung Fu techniques.
Explore Once Upon a Time in China
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