Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and Snake White - Love Endures each come from different story genres, which instantly makes any comparison challenging. Shang-Chi is a superhero flick, while Snake White is a historical Cantonese opera. However, they do have many common aspects. The main characters are Chinese who are essentially immortal. The plots involve ancient legend, and feature elaborate costumes. Abundant special effects supply mythical creatures and epic battles. While I enjoyed both films, Snake White is simply better. It is an elegant re-telling of an ancient Chinese fable, representing timeless themes of love, fidelity, kindness, balance and order. Shang-Chi, on the other hand, is just another superhero story (albeit the first Asian one) from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Snake White exudes historical authenticity, versus Shang-Chi's contrived "legend of the ten rings" that sprang from a 1973 Marvel comic book series. Snake White's characters are complex and nuanced, even the main antagonist, a Buddhist monk. Shang-Chi's characters are mostly cardboard cutouts, with minimal depth. Shang-Chi does take the prize for big-name supporting cast and most elaborate special effects. Still, Snake White's singular approach makes it a superior film. The director managed cast and special effects splendidly to avoid overwhelming and suffocating the audience. Snake White focuses on the relationships among the four main characters, but even more importantly on moral and spiritual principles which transcend the individuals.
To summarize, Snake White is a feast for the eyes and ears. It offers an unhurried, uncluttered, lyrical, musical and visual banquet. Shang-Chi is a highly-polished cinematic roller coaster ride. Each will have its audience, and some people will certainly enjoy both. The difference is that I will gladly watch Snake White again. And again. Shang-Chi? Not so much.
