There are also fighting competitions (called sanda), but the emphasis is on precise moves over brute force. Certain types of wushu resemble rhythmic gymnastics, with the weapons replacing the ropes and ribbons. Participants use weapons like swords and spears, but they contribute to a stunning dance of speed and grace. Thankfully, teacher Li Hui (Sammo Hung) gives the audience a primer early on while addressing the student body. Wushu is a form of martial arts that does involve fighting, but it’s more focused on the artistic style.

Insulated from the difficulties of outside life, the students are able to hone their remarkable martial arts talents. As teens, they retain an innocent exuberance while preparing for the big competition. The opening act introduces the young kids and the school before shifting to the present. They met ten years earlier after joining the school and quickly became close friends. The story is actually a coming-of-age tale depicting teenage friends as they prepare to graduate from the wushu school. I expect there were more than a few fanatics grumbling through much of the 98-minute running time.

Nearly all the footage comes from the final act and misses the ultimate focus. Using the most exciting parts in previews is common, but this is an extreme case. The trailer pulls almost exclusively from the climactic action scenes where the heroes and villains throw down. Produced by the legendary Jackie Chan, Wushu was marketed as a high-flying martial arts thriller.

Age of wushu re list