Donnie Yen is truly one of the greatest box office draws in the world. His contributions to martial arts and action films is immeasurable. His star status transcends continents, language, and generations. In his latest film release he departs from his suave, devastating martial arts persona to give a memorable and moving performance as the head of a family torn apart by the disappearance of his eight (8) year old son.
This international action drama is distributed by Well Go USA and is in Chinese with English subtitles.
This dramatic film is not without its share of action and adventure, as Yen and the search party must face the treacherous elements of an Avalanche prone mountainside in the midst of a storm that threatens to disrupt the
"time is of the essence" search for Yen's son.
The film is, somewhat, of a risk for Yen and the filmmakers as audiences normally come into a Yen film expecting to see some martial arts. There are several scenes in this one where you expect that a martial arts melee might break out, but then we are reminded that this is a dramatic film, not a martial arts one. Yet Yen, the cast, and the Director sell it. It is a very moving and engaging film. We are reminded that Donnie Yen is not just a good martial arts movie star, but that he is a good actor, as well.
The supporting cast is very good. In fact, there are times their roles are more prominent that Yen's, as the lead.
The film is laden with many typical Chinese made themes, including Nationalism, positive messaging, respect for authority etc. These characteristics run through all Chinese made films that are intended for worldwide Distribution. While the storytelling is good, it clearly is within the parameters of what the Chinese government outlines for these films. Those themes are not a distraction, but I was aware of them, throughout.
Additionally, without providing any spoilers, there are many moments during the film where it became necessary to suspend belief . Those moments did not detract from my viewing of it. It is still a powerful and well done film.
If you are prone to tears, I suggest you have the tissues handy when viewing.
The cinematography throughout Polar Rescue is visually stunning.
