The Monkey King 2

The plot is the same most probably with some modifications but the screenplay was different and all the new characters in this film make it slightly difficult for us to merge in with this film.

The visual presentation of the characters and the mischievous-ness they do are all watchable to a certain limit but we get bored after some time maybe it'd be good to watch for the kids and the twists & turns and the evil gameplay stuff was well made though we've seen them all in other films.

One of the visually appealing Chinese/foreign movies ever made

overall, it's a movie for kids and a must-watch for them.

Love the movie. Thought it was entertaining and my kids wanted to see it again. But we all agree Donnie Yen was a better choice for The Monkey King / Sun Wu Kong The Monkey King Havoc in Heaven's Palace was our first choice and favorite among the two so far. Havoc in Heaven's Palace seem to have more story structure and the kids liked the characters better and loved the historical fight scenes with Donnie Yen's Character. My wife seemed to like the most the musical score of the film and we purchased the soundtrack in which we listen to quite often.

My Kids also each wanted there own Blu-Ray in which I purchased for all three of them. With anything the first is always the better of the two but recommend both.

When the first Monkey King premiered there was lofty expectation, yet what we got was lackluster ancient mythology with outdated graphic. Understandably, this can hinder audience's interest for the sequel, but worry not, "The Monkey King 2" is leagues above its predecessor, using better animation, excellent production and friendlier characters to deliver a more amicable magical tale.

This is the story of Sun Wukong as he first meets with Tang Sanzang, the monk who will journey to the west to get the scripture. Perhaps this story will be familiar to Asian audience, and it's refreshing to see it's presented with gorgeous modern presentation. Aaron Kwok as Sun Wukong is arguably better than Donnie Yen, he has more zeal which fits the scrappy Monkey King better, specifically with his body language. Granted, he enjoys higher level of production to create the persona.

Gong Li as Lady White fits as the villain. One can't go wrong in casting a charismatic actor and polish her character in CG, costume and make-up. She brings a heavier impact to every scene she's in. This also translates to other characters as well. Lady White's fellow monsters are uniquely portrayed as half women half beast, almost similar to something from Del Toro's universe and the make-up doesn't disappoint.

Rendition of the monk, Baije and Wujing always spark interest, and the version this movie produces is definitely cordial. Their attires change throughout the phases as they're displayed in flashy fashion yet still recognizable in the intricacy. A few comedic moments are pleasantly delivered with good chemistry. It is simply a better cast in general than the first movie had.

The most improvement is seen in CG department, which looks breathtaking as a fantasy adventure even in first glance. Settings as well as costume present a delicate balance with its contrasting color. Each event grants a distinct unique view as the group travels through cities and villages. At some points it even resembles another journey from the West, "Lord of The Ring" in its natural splendor and enigmatic creature.

It is not without flaws, although these are not major by any means. The plot tries to create more perspectives, but its core story is no different than many Monkey King shows from TV and movie. Ironically, the familiar sense can be too predictable. The visual can get sketchy as well, but for the most parts they hold up nicely, its more intense scenes are definitely visually pleasing.

Brandishing new graphic, cast and vista, this is a leap to silver screen fitting for the name of "Monkey King"

This is full length movie based on one of China's most famous legends, The Monkey King. It stars Aaron Kwok in the title role, tasked to escort a traveling monk, Tang Seng (Shaofeng Feng), to the west to fetch ancient Buddha scriptures while protecting him from the evil White-Bone Demon (Gong Li).

While the TV-series adaptation of the story has the Monkey King and his counterparts dealing a host of demons and monsters to protect the monk in each episode, this movie places emphasis on one demon, the White-Bone Demon, portrayed stunningly by Gong Li. She is a menacing force to be reckoned with, capable of spreading chaos and casualties to those dare to cross her - all the while maintaining her spellbinding beauty.

Kwok is excellent as the Monkey King, feisty and powerful in his own might. Xiao Shen-Yang did great as Zhu Bajie - a womanizer who provides much needed comic relief - and Chung Him Law gave an effective portrayal of Sha Seng - a character more on the sidelines but did a great battle with the skeleton monsters and showed the most concern for the master's well-being.

The movie was a little too high on the CGI in some parts, but it works well mostly, especially in the scenes involving the White Bone Demon as she floats around zapping her dark magic. The visual effects really captures the majesty of the kingdom and rich countryside, and the make-up and costumes brought the characters to life in very detail.

The plot was fast-paced from start to finish, full of suspense and adventure, and the dramatic elements of trust and second chances really make the film all the more interesting. An excellent adaptation of this epic journey!

Grade A

The film itself is boring, the effects are good, the photography and costumes are fantastically beautiful and colorful, the script is even round, it has some pretty boring and childish comic strips, it looks cool, but it's very boring and boring...