The Monkey King (2023) User Reviews

Pointlless snoozefest

[Snootz · 5/10 · 10 September 2023]

I love animated movies. Luv 'em luv 'em. So when I say this is a stinker, it's for good reason. Considering the overall rating of this movie (at this time) is about 5.6... I'd say this film has some serious conceptual problems.

Start with a conceited, self-centered, destructive, unlikable character and add in non-stop pointless action-adventure throughout, and you have the Monkey King. The only redeeming grace of this movie is the girl Lin, whose character, personality and role is enjoyable and at times heart-warming. She's really the main character of this film. She is the only one that has any degree of empathy and growth.

The Monkey King himself is really an irredeemable scoundrel. I've seen Disney Villains that were more likeable than this psychotic nutcase. Okay yes, the Monkey King is historically a chaotic character, but in this film they take that concept way too far. Monkey is definitely the anti-role-model of the year.

The movie doesn't really have an overall theme to speak of, doesn't really make a point, doesn't teach any value lessons to kids. The whole message of the film is: "Do what you want and hang the consequences." Lin points out that Monkey was born from an egg, didn't have a family and even the gods rejected him (as if they had no reason)... so that's supposed to be an excuse for him being a total sociopath?

Sorry, but some movies just don't pull it off, and this is one of them. In the whole movie the Monkey King learns absolutely nothing, experiences no personal growth, doesn't change at all. If you're needing an adrenaline rush this might do, but don't look for anything else in this poorly-conceived plot and presentation of an ageless character.

(Parental note: some parents may object to the film presenting Buddha as God of the universe. Some parents may be delighted at such. Let the viewer be aware.)

animated Asian literature

[ferguson-6 · 7/10 · 16 August 2023]

Greetings again from the darkness. Adapting literary works for the big screen is common practice; however, the stakes are a bit higher when dealing with a beloved classic Asian work that is more than 400 years old. "Journey to the West" was initially written during the Ming Dynasty and no original author has ever been confirmed. The stories were re-imagined for an English audience in 1942 by Arthur Waley and published as "Monkey", and now director Anthony Stacchi and co-writers Steve Bencich, Ron J Friedman, and Rita Hsiao have brought their vision to the screen ... focusing on one specific segment of the story.

Now, if that first paragraph sits a bit heavy, you should know this is an animated movie targeted at kids. It's action-packed, colorful, and funny ... all while packing a message or moral that most parents will appreciate. Much of the Chinese spiritual and philosophical and cultural aspects are included, but never so heavy-handed as to lose the attention of kids. In fact, if any aspect is somewhat overboard, it's the martial arts fighting and action sequences ... of which there are many. Possibly too many for some kids and some parents, and if the messages somehow get lost, it's likely in the crash-boom-bang overdose because the action, while well done, is relentless.

Monkey King (voiced by comedian Jimmy O Yang) is birthed/sprung from a rock and has special powers. Unfortunately, he is not accepted by the local clan of monkeys, even after saving them from a threat. Instead, he turns his attention to being accepted into The Immortals (Gods of the animal world). To prove his worthiness, he sets out to defeat 100 demons, but along the way, we witness an oversized ego and lack of humility. Monkey King is simply not very likable. On this journey, he gains an assistant in his number one fan (not in a MISERY way) Lin (Jolie Hoang-Rappaport). Monkey King even treats her poorly.

The next best character, and Monkey King's nemesis, is the underwater Dragon King (SNL's Bowen Yang). Their exchanges and ego-wrangling are some of the best in the movie, and the underwater scenes provide a welcome CGI change of pace. With no family and his only friend being his magic stick, Monkey King is an outsider with special powers and the kind of attitude that gets junior high kids sent to the Principal's office. No matter how many heroic feats he turns, his lust for power and lack of humility win him no points with The Immortals.

The Dragon King gets the best musical number, while Monkey King's journey leads him through Buddha (BD Wong) and literally into both heaven and hades. The film's big question is how long it will take Monkey King to learn humility and show kindness to others. As has been stated, an ego trip is a journey to nowhere ... it's a lesson this talented Monkey King must learn.

Opens on Netflix beginning August 18, 2023.

Solid animated adaptation of the opening of Journey to the West which works more often than it doesn't

[IonicBreezeMachine · 7/10 · 18 August 2023]

Set in a world overseen by Budha (BD Wong) consisting of Heaven, Hell and the world between, a monkey is born from stone (Jimmy O. Yang adult, Dee Bradley Baker baby) who is endowed with extraordinary powers but is an outsider from the rest of the monkeys. The monkey hones his abilities and after vanquishing a demon using his a stick stolen from the Dragon King (Bowen Yang) he is given the title of Monkey King. Convinced he's meant for a place in Heaven, the Monkey King sets out to conquer 100 demons in the hopes Heaven will extend an invitation to him. Along the way Monkey King has many encounters including from a young girl named Lin (Jolie Haong-Rappaport).

The Monkey King is a 2023 animated film for Netflix co-produced by Reel FX Animation and Pearl Studio. The film is an adaptation of the 16th century Chinese novel Journey to the West (in part anyway) which is no stranger to adaptations with many Chinese or Hong Kong productions having been produced in the past 10 years alone as well as having served as inspiration for other stories such as Dragonball Z. While The Monkey King doesn't stray to far from prior adaptations, but it is an impressive animated effort in its own right that does adequate justice to the story.

In terms of the central character, the movie does a solid job of establishing The Monkey King as an arrogant character who while powerful is lacking in wisdom or humility and is brought to life quite effectively be Jimmy O. Yang's performance. The medium of animation works very well for this story with a strong sense of freedom of movement among the characters and fantastical environments. While the Monkey King is positioned as an arrogant prideful character, the movie does a solid job of keeping him in check from becoming too grating by counterbalancing him with his Stick weapon (who despite not talking is also a character) and Lin who work well against him. While the movie sticks pretty closely to its source material, it also does feel like it plays up some parts of silliness up a little more than it should. While I have no problem with Bowen Yang's performance as the Dragon King who's the primary antagonist, the movie follows a trend of European and Asian animated productions where the overplay the comedic sides of their villains at the expense of treating them as threats.

The Monkey King is a decent animated film that isn't especially ground breaking in its rendition of this story, but it's an agreeable experience with some engaging setpieces and performances and assuming the producers decide to continue this incarnation with a follow-up I'd be interested.

It's just okay

[GryeD · 6/10 · 24 August 2023]

Just watched on Netflix

I am only familliar with the Monkey King concept through past games, anime, and movies. So really I can understand why this movie was positioned as more of a family friendly introduction to this kind of character.

We all know the Monkey King as a cocky, balls to the wall character who aim to achieve greatness alone and so on. Him being hated by the heavens, revered by the gods, the titels go on and on. Knowing that, this movie explained his character perfectly in the start. Mostly the reason why he is who he is and his origin for having this mindset.

Even so, the story of the movie is...kinda incomplete? Like they could of done so much more on a bigger scale. At times it was hard to tell was this a comedy or a cultural tale? This is one of those films that should of just stuck to one genre instead of appealing to several demographics.

Then again I'm not gonna judge a family friendly movie too hard, its okay but the flaws are there.

Awesome movie

[volpe_melanica · 7/10 · 1 April 2024]

I liked this movie, it is about a rebellious, selfish and lonely monkey who tries everything to become a deity aided by a stick and a little girl, but he will have several enemies to face.

I loved the animations in this film (especially the one in 2d at the beginning of the film), with a perfect choice of colors that fit to better represent the various scenes, and really amazing and functional camera movements.

For the soundtrack we have excellent music accompanying all the sequences in the feature film.

The acting is excellent does its job, believable voices.

This is an excellent film for those who love the legend of the Monkey King.

This is an awful adaptation of those folk tales.

[lenwenzellw · 2/10 · 19 August 2023]

The Monkey King was one of my childhood heroes always rebelling against the powers that be. He was the hero that rebelled against Heaven. Those powers that tried to make him less then he could be. His boundless spirit kept him involved in many adventures. Each showcased his boundlessly adventuress , never give up type of spirit. This is not Sun Wukong's Journey To the West.

This is an awful adaptation of those folk tales. A raucous soundtrack, weirdly distorted, overly intense graphics, and a somewhat cruelly distorted story lens takes away from that heroic tale. To my viewpoint there is little to empathize with in this story.

This movie somehow made SUN WUKONG an underdog.

[MoDonegal · 2/10 · 24 August 2023]

As someone who has read the actual Journey To The West novel, I cannot be more disappointed with this characterization of Sun Wukong. It is embarassingly unfaithful to his overall personality, like the writers for this movie glanced at his Wikipedia page and decided to make a movie about him. In the original novel he was well liked by his fellow monkeys and was deemed the king FAR before he had obtained his staff. He is not an underdog, nor was he ever an underdog. I don't know where the idea that he had to overcome some kind of hurdle about being "different" because he was born from stone. Heck, the first two chapters of JTTW are about how he made friends with every animal in the forest, and was generally wiling his days away playing with other monkeys. He's not an outcast. He was loved and I dislike that this movie made it a point of contention to try to make it seem like he became egotistical as some kind of crutch because he was SOOO lonely. No, he became egotistical because he was IMMORTAL and INCREDIBLY STRONG, and even then he only got THOSE powers by SPENDING OVER TEN YEARS training under a legendary monk, defeating the Demon King of Havoc with his bare hands, and by then and only then did he find himself worried that he could not defend his subjects that he decided to get a weapon- which happened to be his staff (which, by the by, is not sentient and Wukong had to actually learn how to use it instead of the thing doing everything for him). I also find the East Dragon and the Jade Emperor's depictions to be alarmingly terrible. They were not the villians of Monkey King's story. There are no villains in his story other than his arrogance. The Jade Emperor is wise and capable, he was not lazy nor rude as he appears in The Monkey King (2023), and the East Dragon was noble and without vain. In fact, they were both tricked and ruffled by Wukong, who threatened them as he pleased. The whole reason the Jade Emperor had him imprisoned is because he was upset that his job wasn't high ranking enough so he fought his way out of Heaven in a massive temper tantrum and upon returning to earth declared himself heaven's equal. The Jade Emperor, The East Dragon, and Wukong are not without flaw- but even this movie stretches too far to try to make a terribly written underdog story of a character who was never meant to be an underdog.

The humor is what I can only describe as being "Netflix Humor", the type of joke that tries too hard to make you laugh. By the third line spoken by Monkey King I was already sick of him. He's not funny. He's boring, one-note, and painfully egotistical, and not in a way that lends to him being any sort of three dimensional.

My only positive is the animation is fluid and clean, but even that is not without it's flaws. The character design is terrible, the texturing worse. I applaud Wukong's face design being a reference to his appearance on stage but he looks like he should not reasonably be able to exist with a lower body the circumfrence of a pole with the upper body resembling the shape of a curled dorito. His head is shaped somewhat like a dinosaur, the best example being something like a Parasaurolophus, complete with the most unreasonably pointy and long swoop of hair I have ever seen. Having to look at him during the run time of this movie was painful. As an artist myself, it was like having cardiac arrest. I'm not dissing stylized animation at all, in fact, I approve of it. A better example of a stylized, eye-pleasing design of a monkey is Monkey from Kubo and the Two Strings. In fact, that movie is just better. Go watch Kubo and the Two Strings instead.

If you're still looking for a Journey to the West themed show aimed at children, watch Lego Monkie Kid. It is beautifully animated and the fight scenes are WELL done. It's overall funnier, better-looking, and offers a more faithful yet still original adaptation of the original JTTW.

Very disappointed

[s-16434-12022 · 1/10 · 18 August 2023]

1. Ugly character designs: usually background characters can be ugly in Hollywood animated films, but this one has ugly main characters, which is a big red flag; 2. The Monkey King has been turned to a dumb evil street thug wannabe, with all the charms of this unique character totally ripped; Monkey in the original work is way smarter, more ambitious and freedom loving.

3. The stick is overpowered but underpowered at the same time: it can do whole lot of cool stuff with Monkey but is omnipotent when it's on its own, WTF?

4. The Dragon-zilla with an obese body is the most cringe of all; 5. Almost every character is now obnoxious with dumb comedy; 6. The subtext of the novel is the irony of religious power and political power, which is completely omitted in this adaptations.

The movie is extremely colorful and creative.

[trinaboice · 9/10 · 1 September 2023]

IN A NUTSHELL: This adorable animation was inspired by an epic Chinese tale, translated into an action-packed comedy. A special monkey uses his magical fighting stick to battle demons, dragons, gods, and the greatest adversary of all: his own ego.

The film was directed by Anthony Stacchi. Writing credits go to Steve Bencich and Ron J. Friedman.

THINGS I LIKED: I've been to China many times and can tell you the legend of the Monkey King is very much alive and well over there today! You can walk through a park and find a random guy dressed like the Monkey King in order to get money from people. Ha ha I love all of the little Chinese details in the film that will introduce kids and their parents to Chinese culture.

Voice talents include BD Wong (Buddha), Jimmy O. Yang (The Monkey King), Stephanie Hsu, Hoon Lee, Bowen Yang (I have a son named Bowen!), Jo Koy, and many more. They all do a fantastic job.

The movie is extremely colorful and creative.

The sound effects are often hilarious.

There's an action sequence that looks like it came straight out of the Spider-verse movie with quick 2D movements. Cute and fun.

The color palette is rich and detailed.

Lots of visual and spoken humor.

There's mention of Chinese egg tarts. YUM! They're originally from Portugal, but SUPER popular in the Canton region of China.

THINGS I DIDN'T LIKE: The Monkey King's personality is overly confident and cocky.

There are some random musical numbers.

Some of the musical numbers sound like heavy metal, which didn't quite fit the movie. How about something with a Chinese vibe, eh?

I can imagine that some parents will tire of all the loud, chaotic fight scenes.

TIPS FOR PARENTS: You'll need to talk to your kids about who Buddha was.

Lots of fighting sequences and animated violence.

Lots of destruction.

No profanity. Instead, words like "heck" are used. "What the heck?"

It feels like AI played a role in this...

[ethanmarrell · 2/10 · 27 August 2023]

I feel like kids films are going to be a trial ground for producers, companies and studios to see if audiences will consume AI content without noticing it's AI. That's what this movie felt like...a film written, structured, and performed by AI...and there's a couple of others I've watched recently that feel similar (such as Cats in the Museum in the cinema).

This movie felt extremely unemotional and detached. The structure felt formulaic but in a way that just didn't feel like humans were behind it making the said formulaic mistakes, if that makes sense?

Performances felt like they were built on a voice artist recording their voice for 2 hours and then AI increased the vocabulary and filled in the blanks and beefed it up. But I'm sure they were paid for just 2 hours of work making the voice samples. Just an incredibly aloof feeling watching this. I think my kids sense something is off but can't articulate it... too much computer involvement is all I can speculate on right now. Let's see how content evolves or devolves in the coming year.

1/10

[d_penn · 1/10 · 8 September 2023]

I don't think the 5 star reviews were written by real people. This movie is generic bubble gum with no flavor. And it's such a shame because we want children's films based on legends or fairy tales from around the world. The hero is unlikable throughout and learns nothing from his journey (although he tells us he did at the end, just before he does his "Kowabunga Dude!" pose, and the credits role.) The Monkey King (2023) isn't a story, it's a product to be consumed and immediately forgotten. Without a doubt one of the worst movies of all time.

The plot is really messy and it feels like each scene is a build up to something but eventually it's just a terrible build up to nothing.

With that being said it's like every single scene has no purpose whatsoever n I have no idea what I watched.

Decent looking movie with obnoxious hero

[chrisrootnick · 3/10 · 14 September 2023]

The movie looks decent enough but why oh why did they make the monkey such a self centered egotistical character. A certain amount of arrogance can be okay but some humor needs to be added if that character needs to be likable. This monkey is just completely unlikable. He doesn't care about anyone but himself. He's useless without his staff and everything is just way too easy for him.

Storywise it's okay. Never read the original story so i can't compare that. Lots of flash fightscenes with a metal soundtrack. I'm guessing this movie is targeted toward kids/teens. The kids liked the movie. The adults hated it.

Very poor Writing and waste of time

[zahidhasan-25864 · 2/10 · 21 August 2023]

Monkey king is very well know for its action and comedy but this movie was unable to deliver it. The writing was very poor, it was unable to attract people to it's story. I was really angry that they made a nice character or a hero such as monkey king to look like this.

I hate it, Who thoughts to make this movie anyway?

There were cool monkey king movies in previous years, but this movie just a waste of time.

I am really sad and dissappointed that they made this movie this way.

The writer , director sucks to deliver this kind of movie, they just wanted to earn money, but sure they will fail.

I reccommend not to watch this movie.

I loved it!

[kapildevneupane · 10/10 · 22 August 2023]

If you're unfamiliar with the original story, like I was, you're in for an absolute treat with this movie. The way it takes you on a captivating journey from start to finish is truly remarkable. The animation quality is nothing short of top-notch, and it effortlessly brings the world and characters to life in such a visually stunning manner.

As someone who values a captivating narrative, I was pleasantly surprised by how engaging and enthralling the story turned out to be. It's a testament to the skill of the filmmakers that they were able to craft a storyline that appeals not only to fans of the original material but also to newcomers like myself. The seamless blend of action, emotion, and intrigue had me hooked right from the opening scenes.

One aspect that particularly stood out for me was how the movie managed to keep me invested throughout its runtime. In an age where attention spans seem to be shrinking, this film managed to hold my interest from beginning to end. There wasn't a single moment where I found myself checking the time or feeling disconnected from the plot. It's a testament to the expert pacing and the way the narrative unfolds, keeping you eagerly awaiting each twist and turn.

Today's movie landscape can sometimes fall into the trap of being formulaic or predictable, but this film defies those norms. It's a refreshing departure from the run-of-the-mill offerings, providing a genuinely unique and enthralling experience. The characters are multidimensional, their motivations are well-crafted, and their development over the course of the story is both believable and satisfying.

To sum it up, this movie is a triumph on multiple fronts. It takes an unfamiliar viewer like myself and immerses them in a world of wonder, seamlessly weaving an engaging narrative with breathtaking animation. The fact that I was riveted throughout is a testament to its quality, as it's a rarity to find a film that can hold your attention so effectively. So, whether you're a fan of the original story or completely new to it, give this movie a watch - you won't be disappointed!

animated Chinese character

[SnoopyStyle · 5/10 · 25 August 2023]

A monkey is born from a rock with light ray eyes. He gets banished from his troupe for his carelessness when a Demon takes another baby monkey. He tries to battle the Demon and fail. He steals a magical staff and intends to defeat 100 Demons to become a God himself. Village girl Lin joins him as his assistant.

The Monkey King is a traditional Chinese character and this Hollywood Netflix movie is trying to adapt it. I can't speak to the accuracy of the adaptation. The story is a series of energetic fights over some unknowable God/magic/fantasy. It all makes sense but it doesn't make it compelling. Mostly, I don't really like the Monkey. It may be easier to center the movie by using Lin as the lead. She seems to be the more relatable character. Maybe the kids will like a fighting monkey cartoon.

Had its pros and cons

[watersonada · 5/10 · 19 November 2023]

This movie to me made no sense.

Characters, went over that line for me.

Characters were brought in for no reason, scenes that you think would lead somewhere didn't, and a lot of plot points from the original story were just completed changed or thrown away. In fact, I feel like the only thing that stayed the same in the movie was the title, the fact that the main character was a monkey l, and the whole 'becoming a God' thing. It wouldn't have even mattered if you knew the original story or came in with no idea, because it was so different. I understand movies take the book and change parts, but this was not a good thing for me.

Even the whole moral of the story, where the monkey King change his ways, never really happens here. The monkey King gets what he wants, obliviates the consequences, saves the world, and doesn't learn anything from it. He stays and arrogant, annoying monkey.

It did have its ups, though, there were some funny jokes and cool action scenes, but to me it just wasn't a great movie.

Overall, I only really recommend watching this if you are into a lot of action. It's not a very 'parent' movie, it's mostly directed at younger people below 8 who probably don't care if it's not that great. But it's up to you, I'm not a movie critic, and this is just my opinion. If you want to, go for it.

Boring

[themonkeykingisbad · 1/10 · 10 April 2024]

For starters, the film went way to quickly. They gloss over the fact the staff can talk and other things like that. The "Protagonist" was so horrible to everyone around him. Personally, I was rooting more for the "evil" water dragon and the little girl Lin. The monkey learned nothing from the entire journey and was still as insufferable as the start of the film. The monkey was meant to kill 100 demons to be noticed by the immortal gods in heaven but they just montaged 99 out of 100 of the killings and the last demon was a little girl (not Lin). I don't know if the film was meant to be like it but there was not a single serious part. Any time there was a semi-serious moment, it was immediately interrupted by, the monkey usually, an userious moment.

Overall, I would not recommend this film for anyone with critical thinking skills.

1/10.

A wasted opportunity to bring The Monkey King story to a new generation.

[joebloggscity · 3/10 · 27 September 2023]

LIke many others of my generation, we used to love watching "Monkey" when we were young, although admittedly had no clue what it was about, the philosophy, the history or that it was actually Japanese not Chinese (we were very little, so apologies!).

Anyhow, in a retro kind of way we still love the old show, and the BBC did some brilliant opening credits & themes based around the whole story for the Beijing Olympics.

So now this was released, and I was looking forward to watching this but wish I hadn't. What a letdown. The lead character is portrayed like some modern day streetwise but uncouth protagonist, and really it misses the heart of the story & character. I just found the humour dull, and the storyline didn't grab me at all. It's just some moden day story supplanted into the Monkey King story, and really is just a poor amalgalm of the too, if not just a poor cash-in on the popularity of the original fable.

Really there's nothing of note here, and is a wasted opportunity to bring this story to a new generation.

Long time since a good action animation.

[parkmanjohn · 8/10 · 22 August 2023]

If you liked Kung fu panda you would like this. Action packed, colorful, and family friendly. Of course it does has its slower dramatic times for contrast, but still grwat action. Creative characters and kept my interest the whole time. It is nother knew but reiterating it was fun. Mayne not for very young like four year olds as it has some maybe considered "scary moments" for the young. I would say great for 6-plus age. Also, the religious view is based around buddhism, so if you are particular about watching non other religion films than yours then do not watch this. Again to sum it up it; it reminds me mostly of kung fu panda.

Repeat Repeat Repeat

[iamnayeem · 1/10 · 1 April 2024]

Another repeat telecast in the name of new movie. I feel like i watched already million's of monkey king's origin and they still made another, just stop for god sake.

I like journey to the west story, monkey king. Bt those who make new movie with same old repeat telecast that we watched already like millions of times I don't like those idiots actually.

If u already plan to make next part and want to end the whole story it doesn't matter how many part u need to make u will make it and thats why u Made this origin then atleast try make it enjoyable, right?

Try to make movie with story from journey to the west, that no one ever made movie with that story.

Fun and action-packed with a fascinating story

[magnoliacream · 8/10 · 21 August 2023]

Inspired by the beloved Chinese novel Journey to the West, this tells the origin of a powerful monkey born from a magical rock. Upon birth, he shoots light beams from his eyes into the palace of the Jade Emperor, lord of the immortals, who orders him eliminated. However, Buddha tells the emperor the monkey has an important destiny and should be allowed to find his way.

The wild monkey longs for the love of a mother and the acceptance of the monkey tribe. However, his attempts to belong backfire and he is shunned by the group. He learns to live alone and trains himself in martial arts. To help defend his tribe from demons, he searches for a weapon and finds a magic stick that has been waiting for a powerful rebel to use it. The monkey and weapon bond and become a powerful team. After getting rid of a demon that has been plaguing the monkey tribe, he is crowned the monkey king. He sets off on a mission to become immortal. Along the way, he meets a plucky and smart girl named Lin who joins his adventure.

This is highly entertaining and also somewhat informative for those not familiar with Chinese tales about immortals and demons. I, for one, didn't know that Buddha is considered higher in power and status than the immortal lord.

I normally get bored with movies/dramas that have a lot of action scenes, but this has other elements like defending weak mortals from demons and quest for immortality that held my interest. There is also something endearing about a powerful outsider who not only does not bear a grudge against those who shun him but even fights for them. This noble trait somehow makes his egocentricity bearable, though one can't help wondering whether he would gain humility thus become a real hero in every sense of the word. And that is a character development worth waiting for.

For friends who love Hong Kong-style nonsensical humor, you must watch the Cantonese version!

[evechowchow · 10/10 · 20 August 2023]

Switching to the Cantonese audio track, the entire movie takes on a magically enhanced vibe!

A typical American inspirational animation unexpectedly made me feel like I was thrown back into the wild and crazy era of old Hong Kong films. The nonsensical Cantonese dialogues are hilariously funny, all intertwined with the familiar narrative of ordinary people striving and growing.

The Monkey King isn't some all-powerful deity, he's just a lonely little monkey who fearlessly faces challenges. And the little girl represents each and every one of us, leading lives filled with dreams yet often feeling unfulfilled.

The character designs for each role are brimming with imagination. While borrowing the concept from Journey to the West, the film creates a whole new story and world.

Throughout the movie, I laughed until I cried and cried until I laughed. The final few segments of music during the rolling credits seamlessly transition between Eastern and Western styles, making it incredibly enjoyable and satisfying.

And the highlight: definitely watch the Cantonese version!

a wild adventure - cool animation

[bucketberry-14594 · 10/10 · 20 August 2023]

Fun movie, lots of action -- moves fast! The animation was amazing, especially the night scenes. Funny characters, I especially liked The Dragon King and his two minions! The Monkey King is a little obnoxious & completely full of himself; a narcissist. I wish there were more songs, they were catchy, clever & funny! I liked that it was a little different, and actually a little weird, (not predictable.) That is certainly due to the original story being hundreds of years old. Favorite scene is in the peach garden. A whirlwind adventure for kids, but some jokes that adults will also find funny. I enjoyed it!

"A Timeless Adventure for All Ages: Reimagining the Monkey King's Journey with Creativity and Heart"

[satishgoda-75-83356 · 10/10 · 21 August 2023]

First off, this movie isn't just for kids or adults; it's a masterpiece for the entire family. I'm fascinated by how it managed to strike a chord across different age groups. It's a real art to create something that resonates with both the young and the old.

Now, let's talk about the animation. I work in the computer graphics industry, and I must say, they've done a remarkable job here. The blend of cultural elements with global appeal is simply breathtaking.

And the soundtrack! Toby Chu's composition, especially "Little Pebble," has become a personal favorite of mine. It's not just background music; it plays a vital role in the storytelling, adding depth to the entire experience.

What's more, I haven't had so much fun watching a movie in a long time. The creators didn't just retell an old story; they reimagined it, infusing it with creativity and innovation.

In conclusion, this adaptation of the Monkey King story is not just a "must-see"; it's a celebration of art, culture, and storytelling. From the impeccable animation to the vibrant soundtrack, it's a film that stands as a shining example of what creativity can achieve. It's not just a passing spectacle but a memorable experience that left a lasting impression on me. It gets a big thumbs-up from me, and I highly recommend it for a fun-filled adventure for the whole family!

Monkey king in the Kungfu Panda universe. Minor adaption of the story (Journey to the West), but modernised to appeal you younger audiences. It was Fun.

[sisubalan · 8/10 · 20 August 2023]

Monkey king in the Kungfu Panda universe. Characters based on the chinese mythology/deities and minor adaption of the story (Journey to the West), but modernised to appeal younger and western audiences that are probably unfamiliar with the famous novel. It was fun.

The animation style and quality reminded me of the Kungfu Panda movies. Meanwhile, the bright and neon color palette reminded me of TMNT/Nimona animations.

Although most of characters were based on the chinese mythology but the storyline of this movie was not fully adapted from the 'Journey to the West', famous story of the Monkey King (a.k.a Sun Wu Kong). This was modernised most probably for the younger and western audiences that might not be familiar with the famous story of the monkey king. Despite the extreme changes, still found this to be very engaging.

Glowing stick was definitely something new, upgrade from the plain old magic staff. Lin was a great addition. Great characters design and potrayal. Glad that they didnt turn the monkey king to be too cocky and extremely aggressive.

Falls in action and comedy categories. Scores were okay, not a huge fan. But the transitions and attention to details were superb. Amazing voice casts, very engaging. The original songs were just meh, not very memorable. It was a fun watch. Highly recommended.