“Shanghai Knights” is a comedy action-adventure film released in 2003, directed by David Dobkin. It is a sequel to the 2000 film “Shanghai Noon” and once again stars Jackie Chan as Chon Wang and Owen Wilson as Roy O’Bannon.
The story follows Chon Wang and Roy O’Bannon as they travel to London to seek justice and avenge the murder of Chon’s father, who was killed by a mysterious assassin named Lord Rathbone (played by Aidan Gillen). Chon’s sister, Lin (Fann Wong), joins them on their quest to apprehend the villain and retrieve an imperial seal that holds great historical significance to their family and China.
As they arrive in London, Chon and Roy find themselves in a fish-out-of-water situation, adapting to the cultural differences and challenges of the Victorian-era city. With their signature blend of martial arts and slapstick humor, they navigate their way through various comical and action-packed encounters.
The film cleverly blends elements of Western and Eastern cultures, infusing the Victorian setting with Jackie Chan’s iconic martial arts choreography and Owen Wilson’s humorous antics. The action sequences are inventive and entertaining, with Chan’s physical stunts and Wilson’s comedic timing contributing to the film’s charm.
Fann Wong’s portrayal of Lin adds a strong and capable female presence to the story, highlighting her skills as a martial artist and her determination to seek justice for her family.
“Shanghai Knights” continues the winning formula of the first film, offering a delightful mix of action, comedy, and buddy-film dynamics. The chemistry between Jackie Chan and Owen Wilson remains a highlight, as their characters’ banter and camaraderie bring humor and heart to the film.
While “Shanghai Knights” may not have received the same level of critical acclaim as its predecessor, it remains a beloved touchstone for fans of action-comedy films. The film’s entertaining blend of historical adventure and martial arts antics make it a fun and enjoyable watch for audiences of all ages.
Additional Details
- Movie Studio: Touchstone Pictures
- Year Released: 2003
- Type of Movie: Live Action
- Box Office: $182.3 million
- IMDB Link
Cast
- Jackie Chan: Chon “John” Wang / “John Wayne”
- Owen Wilson: Roy O’Bannon / “Roy Rogers”
- Fann Wong: Chon Lin
- Aaron Johnson: Charlie Chaplin
- Aidan Gillen: Lord Nelson Rathbone
- Donnie Yen: Wu Chow
- Tom Fisher: Arthur “Artie” Doyle
- Oliver Cotton: Jack the Ripper
- Kim Chan: Chon Wang and Chon Lin’s father
- Gemma Jones: Queen Victoria
- Tom Wu: Lead Boxer Liu
- Kelly-Marie Kerr: Clara
- Constantine Gregory: the Mayor of New York City
- Ray Donn: Chinese villager (uncredited)
- Barbara Nedeljáková: Debutante
- Anna-Louise Plowman: Debutante
- Georgina Chapman: Debutante
- Daisy Beaumont: Cigarette girl
- Alison King: Prostitute
Crew
- Director: David Dobkin
- Producers: Roger Birbaum, Gary Barber and Jonathan Glickman
- Writers: Alfred Gough and Miles Millar
