The theme of Chinese marital arts on a Disney Original Movie caught the attention of my kids. I watched it with them last night when it was replayed. I also got hooked and entertained with the way the story developed. It was very interesting to see an Asian-American character as the girl to beat to become Homecoming Queen. She was frankly quite annoying in those scenes where she was trying her darnedest to shake off the Buddhist monk Shen, but the light mood of the whole movie made it tolerable. The scenes where Shen involved Wendy's teachers during training and the climactic fight were very action-packed yet with a sense of humor. You are willing just to overlook those impossible scenes (like how Wendy changed into her Chinese fighting garb at the museum that her Grandma brought for her, among many others). Oh well, it is all in good fun!
40 Reviews
Less cheesy than I thought.
Ddey6527 June 2006
From the moment Brenda Song walked into the junior high school set of "Stuck in the Suburbs" and flung her retro-1960's hairdo over her shoulder, people who never knew who she was prior to then would realize this is an actress that The Disney Channel could not afford to lose before she grows up. And though she already turned 18 before the release of this DCOM, they couldn't possibly deny that she was a star in the making as far back as "The Ultimate Christmas Present." When I first heard that this was going to be Brenda's first starring role, I thought it was going to be incredibly corny, cheesy and campy. I'm surprised to find I was wrong about the third part.
Wendy Wu, is a pretty and popular contemporary Chinese-American California high school girl. She has two friends that envy her, a trophy boyfriend she's not entirely enthusiastic about, and while not the smartest kid in class, she's certainly not the spoiled airhead she plays on "The Suite Life of Zack & Cody." Neither she nor her parents, nor even her classmates make any issue of their cultural heritage, until two things happen; 1)Her mother, a museum curator starts getting newly received ancient Chinese statues, and 2)Wendy herself gets a visit from a Buddhist Monk who insists she's the reincarnation of an old female warrior destined to fight an evil spirit(What I'd like to know is how this temple survived more earthly evils like the Five Year Plan, "Great Leap Forward," Cultural Revolution, etc.). Naturally, she thinks the guy is nuts, but he slowly starts to convince her that he's telling the truth, and she agrees to accept training for the big fight that's to come.
The tagline here is "Pretty. Tough." No truth-in-advertising laws were broken here. Her opponent Jessica Dawson(Ellen Woglom)isn't so bad looking herself. The TV-PG Rating was appropriate as well, not only for the standard contemporary martial arts choreography, but for the idea that Shin may have to die, a la Michael Biehn in "The Terminator"(1984). Essentially, Shin Koyamada is Wendy Wu's version of Kyle Reese. Part of the problem with the kung-fu fighting scenes is that like so many of them nowadays, the producers think they have to rip off "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon(2000)." Others detected elements of "Buffy, the Vampire Slayer(1992)," the "Dragonball"(1988) franchise, and numerous versions of the "Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers"(1993). Although admittedly, I saw more Power Rangers elements in "Sky High(2005)," than I did here.
Hardcore Martial Arts fans would probably dismiss this because it's a DCOM, and because of the cheesy plot, and far-fetched special effects, but I remember seeing plenty of martial arts movies from the 1970's with less of a plot, and people shooting lightning bolts out of their hands as well as other SFX that didn't exist in the 12th Century Far East. As of this writing, there don't seem to be any plans to put this movie on DVD, however the high ratings may change that. And though there are others who may like "High School Musical(2006)(TV)" better than this DCOM(including those who like this one), I feel the opposite way. All in all, it's not half bad.
Wendy Wu, is a pretty and popular contemporary Chinese-American California high school girl. She has two friends that envy her, a trophy boyfriend she's not entirely enthusiastic about, and while not the smartest kid in class, she's certainly not the spoiled airhead she plays on "The Suite Life of Zack & Cody." Neither she nor her parents, nor even her classmates make any issue of their cultural heritage, until two things happen; 1)Her mother, a museum curator starts getting newly received ancient Chinese statues, and 2)Wendy herself gets a visit from a Buddhist Monk who insists she's the reincarnation of an old female warrior destined to fight an evil spirit(What I'd like to know is how this temple survived more earthly evils like the Five Year Plan, "Great Leap Forward," Cultural Revolution, etc.). Naturally, she thinks the guy is nuts, but he slowly starts to convince her that he's telling the truth, and she agrees to accept training for the big fight that's to come.
The tagline here is "Pretty. Tough." No truth-in-advertising laws were broken here. Her opponent Jessica Dawson(Ellen Woglom)isn't so bad looking herself. The TV-PG Rating was appropriate as well, not only for the standard contemporary martial arts choreography, but for the idea that Shin may have to die, a la Michael Biehn in "The Terminator"(1984). Essentially, Shin Koyamada is Wendy Wu's version of Kyle Reese. Part of the problem with the kung-fu fighting scenes is that like so many of them nowadays, the producers think they have to rip off "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon(2000)." Others detected elements of "Buffy, the Vampire Slayer(1992)," the "Dragonball"(1988) franchise, and numerous versions of the "Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers"(1993). Although admittedly, I saw more Power Rangers elements in "Sky High(2005)," than I did here.
Hardcore Martial Arts fans would probably dismiss this because it's a DCOM, and because of the cheesy plot, and far-fetched special effects, but I remember seeing plenty of martial arts movies from the 1970's with less of a plot, and people shooting lightning bolts out of their hands as well as other SFX that didn't exist in the 12th Century Far East. As of this writing, there don't seem to be any plans to put this movie on DVD, however the high ratings may change that. And though there are others who may like "High School Musical(2006)(TV)" better than this DCOM(including those who like this one), I feel the opposite way. All in all, it's not half bad.
Who knew Brenda Song could kick major butt?!
beccad9023 December 2006
Brenda Song is probably best known for being London Tipton, the dimwitted daughter of a wealthy hotel owner in The Suite Life of Zach & Cody. She proves in this film she can do more than be a pretty face! She said in a behind the scenes documentary for this film that she took karate classes as a child (even though she wanted to do ballet) and the really paid off! She kicks major booty in this DCOM.
The Basic Plot: Wendy Wu (Song) is a young lady hopeful of being Homecoming queen, but it is not until a young monk (Shin Koyomada) reveals to her that she is part of a prophecy...and that an evil force has been released and it is her duty to bring it down...but Wendy will have to hang up her prom gown and her hopes of becoming homecoming queen as well...
This is unlike any DCOM I've ever seen! Amazing special effects and martial arts choreography. I give it and 8/10
The Basic Plot: Wendy Wu (Song) is a young lady hopeful of being Homecoming queen, but it is not until a young monk (Shin Koyomada) reveals to her that she is part of a prophecy...and that an evil force has been released and it is her duty to bring it down...but Wendy will have to hang up her prom gown and her hopes of becoming homecoming queen as well...
This is unlike any DCOM I've ever seen! Amazing special effects and martial arts choreography. I give it and 8/10
Worse than I thought it would be
samantha_t4119 July 2006
Warning: Spoilers
This movie was so poorly written and directed I fell asleep 30 minutes through the movie. The jokes in the movie are corny and even though the plot is interesting at some angles, it is too far fetched and at some points- ridiculous. If you are 11 or older you will overlook the writing in the movie and be disappointed, but if you are 10 or younger this is a film that will capture your attention and be amazed with all the stunts (which I might add are poorly done) and wish you were some warrior to. The casting in this movie wasn't very good, and the music was very disappointing because it was like they were trying to build up the tension but it didn't fit at all. On a scale of 1-10 (10 being excellent, 1 being horrible) the acting in this movie is a 4. Brenda Song is talented in comedy, but with this kind of movie, in some of the more serious scenes, her acting was laughable. When she made some of her "fighting" poses, I started laughing out loud. I think the worst thing about this movie is definitely the directing, for example, the part where her enemy turns out to be the person the evil villain is possesing, how her voice turns dark and evil, I think that was incredibly stupid, and how Wendy's (Brenda Song)teachers were all her teachers at school being possessed by monks, that was pretty ridiculous to. So to sumamrize it all, a disappointing movie, but okay if you're 10 or under.
just plain fun
cherold27 June 2006
Decided to check this out because it was a sort of cute premise and was directed by someone who worked on Xena. It's actually rather similar to Xena, with the same goofy humor, obliviousness to accuracy and general good-heartedness, although the good-heartedness is push a little more because it's for the Disney Channel. The fight scenes are fun, the movie has a good sense of humor and it's a nice take on the Buffy the Vampire slayer story. In fact, while the Buffy movie had a clever idea (shallow popular girl has a destiny) it actually wasn't a very good movie, and between the two I would take Wendy Wu. Definitely worth watching.
Wendy Wu: Homecoming Warrior
Shalaan104 August 2006
Warning: Spoilers
First of all when I saw the teaser trailer for Wendy Wu, I was definitely excited. Brenda Song, one of the hottest girls on Disney Channel, would be doing martial arts and I was fine with that... until I saw the movie. The action was poorly constructed, the movie couldn't have realated to anyone, the fighting was unrealistic and it sucked... along with the plot. If you really think about it's a wannabe Buffy the Vampire Slayer, a girl who is the descendant of other warriors who were women, a girl wants to ignore her calling and wants to become homecoming queen, the watcher who bug's her to prepare for a big fight against some ancient evil. The idea just wasn't all that original, the movie is waste of time.
pretty good
iluvtoscream317 June 2006
this movie is OK definitely not one of the best DCOM but it was pretty good some parts were very immature and kinda stupid i rate this movie a 7 a little over average because of the moral it sent was pretty good
finally a movie with a different culture i understand gotta kick it up was also a different culture but using the actual history was very different or Disney channel overall was not a bad movie,not as good as i was hoping but not horrible:-)
i definitely have to say the best part was toward the end when Wendy learns that there are more important things than becoming homecoming queen and when she saves shin she learns to sacrifice was a very good lesson
the casting was very good Brenda did a nice job
the last line about the cappuccino was a little dumb i think they should have ended differently but i definitely enjoyed this movie and if you haven't seen it i wouldn't say you should put it on top of your "to see"list but definitely think about seeing it!:-)
finally a movie with a different culture i understand gotta kick it up was also a different culture but using the actual history was very different or Disney channel overall was not a bad movie,not as good as i was hoping but not horrible:-)
i definitely have to say the best part was toward the end when Wendy learns that there are more important things than becoming homecoming queen and when she saves shin she learns to sacrifice was a very good lesson
the casting was very good Brenda did a nice job
the last line about the cappuccino was a little dumb i think they should have ended differently but i definitely enjoyed this movie and if you haven't seen it i wouldn't say you should put it on top of your "to see"list but definitely think about seeing it!:-)
Worst DCOM ever!
iheartjate23 July 2006
Wow. This was probably the worst DCOM ever. I watched the first half hour and I laughed. Brenda Song plays Wendy, the popular girl with the hot jock boyfriend and stuck up friends who is determined to be Homecoming Queen. She is supposed to save the world as a warrior, and Shin comes to her aid to help her with her Martial Arts. Shin teaches her the skills of a snake, tiger, etc. and she has to learn certain techniques to save the world.
This movie is great for kids who want to learn about Martial Arts and the Chinese culture but the acting and casting was horrible.
Brenda Song is a comedic actress and I can't see her playing a serious role. It was laugh out loud funny watching her cry over Shin. Shin couldn't act at all, and everything was totally unbelievable.
I watched this movie and tried to think of something similar, and the thing I came up with was the Power Rangers. This movie is so fake and the stunts were so Power Ranger-esquire that it was just corny and stupid. The characters weren't likable and I just couldn't stand to watch it. Disney really needs to take time to make some decent movies. High School Musical is the only movie that deserves to be on Disney Channel, along with other movies like Jumping Ship, Color of Friendship, Go Figure, Read It and Weep, & Stuck in the Suburbs.
If you like action-adventure and corny jokes, you'll like this movie.
This movie is great for kids who want to learn about Martial Arts and the Chinese culture but the acting and casting was horrible.
Brenda Song is a comedic actress and I can't see her playing a serious role. It was laugh out loud funny watching her cry over Shin. Shin couldn't act at all, and everything was totally unbelievable.
I watched this movie and tried to think of something similar, and the thing I came up with was the Power Rangers. This movie is so fake and the stunts were so Power Ranger-esquire that it was just corny and stupid. The characters weren't likable and I just couldn't stand to watch it. Disney really needs to take time to make some decent movies. High School Musical is the only movie that deserves to be on Disney Channel, along with other movies like Jumping Ship, Color of Friendship, Go Figure, Read It and Weep, & Stuck in the Suburbs.
If you like action-adventure and corny jokes, you'll like this movie.
Great!
brookenichole-9805414 September 2021
This movie SUCKED
ChemicallyxYours19 June 2006
I thought this movie was terrible. I'm Chinese, so I thought everything was totally wrong. Many of the facts were incorrect. The only thing right about Chinese history in the movie was when Wendy's mother explained to her husband about the statues that guarded ShiHuangDi. I also thought the fight scenes were very cheesy and fake. Many of the actors and actresses were not very great. Some of the jokes that were supposedly "funny" were really stupid. I think this movie should receive the worst possible rating it could get. Disney has really got to get more information about Chinese history if they want to create an extravagant movie. Mulan was quite accurate. Watch this movie if you want to waste some time.
Wendy Wu is The TV Martial Arts Movie of the Year
burtcannjr16 June 2006
This movie was a joy to see. An interesting story line with great action scenes. It should rank with The Cheetah Girls, High School Musical, and other successful Disney Channel films. Though some of the special effects were not the best (what can you expect with a TV movie) it still showed effort.It also showed the amazing acting skills of The Joy Luck Club star Tsai Chin playing the grandmother of Wendy. The true amazement was shown by Disney Channel veteran but not yet star Brenda Song. Her wonderful acting in this film will take her to new heights in the Disney Corporation. Shin Koyamada playing the very religious yet heartthrob monk-trainer Shen was also a good choice for the role. I hope that you will take my advice and make an effort to see this movie. I am sure you wont regret it.
A lot better than I ever expected
dee.reid20 June 2006
"Wendy Wu: Homecoming Warrior" has been compared to "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" in some respects because it concerns a popular cheerleader-type teenager who discovers that she is the latest descendant in a long line of demon-fighting warriors and is forced to bear the weight of the ongoing battle. I hardly think the comparisons are relevant. Obviously, the director John Liang has seen his fair share of Bruce Lee, "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" (2000), and other kung-fu spectacles to make a decent, Disney-fied kung-fu flick.
As a guy, I'll be the first here to admit that Brenda Song is a little cute, even though she doesn't look remotely Chinese, and is in fact actually Thai/Hmong, but it hardly matters. She's also a black belt in Tae Kwon Do, a Korean fighting art, yet her character supposedly has consummate fighting skills in Crane, Eagle Claw, and other Chinese kung-fu arts. That hardly matters either.
What does matter is how the film makes good use of special effects and allows her and others to fly and kick really high (like in some of the greatest martial arts flicks from the 1970s) and make the film more accessible to everybody, even kids and those who may not know a damn thing about martial arts movies. There's just some pretty darn entertaining stuff here.
The plot: as Wendy Wu, Song is a popular California teen leading a normal life. She's also aspiring to win homecoming queen and must square off against a rival from childhood who copies everything she does. The movie gets underway when a mysterious box arrives at the museum where her mother works, and it unleashes an ancient evil that has come to rain down darkness upon the world. A Buddhist monk named Shen (Shin Koyamada) is sent to protect and train Wendy, which is easier said than done since Wendy and the other members of her family seem detached from their Chinese heritage and are reminded by the grandmother (Tsai Chin) of their roots.
As a fan of martial arts movies, "Wendy Wu: Homecoming Warrior" is a delight, even though it's different from what I'm usually accustomed to as far as these sorts of flicks. Miraculously, the movie is able to rise above the "typical" Disney kiddie fanfare and take itself a little more seriously as a stand-alone picture. The fight scenes are choreographed well and exciting, and the martial arts battles themselves are a far cry from anything you might see in say, "Mortal Kombat." Lastly, Song does display some pretty nice moves of her own and it makes me wonder if this movie could be her ticket to a sequel or even her own spin-off series.
Such a change would certainly want to make me watch the Disney Channel a little more often.
7/10
As a guy, I'll be the first here to admit that Brenda Song is a little cute, even though she doesn't look remotely Chinese, and is in fact actually Thai/Hmong, but it hardly matters. She's also a black belt in Tae Kwon Do, a Korean fighting art, yet her character supposedly has consummate fighting skills in Crane, Eagle Claw, and other Chinese kung-fu arts. That hardly matters either.
What does matter is how the film makes good use of special effects and allows her and others to fly and kick really high (like in some of the greatest martial arts flicks from the 1970s) and make the film more accessible to everybody, even kids and those who may not know a damn thing about martial arts movies. There's just some pretty darn entertaining stuff here.
The plot: as Wendy Wu, Song is a popular California teen leading a normal life. She's also aspiring to win homecoming queen and must square off against a rival from childhood who copies everything she does. The movie gets underway when a mysterious box arrives at the museum where her mother works, and it unleashes an ancient evil that has come to rain down darkness upon the world. A Buddhist monk named Shen (Shin Koyamada) is sent to protect and train Wendy, which is easier said than done since Wendy and the other members of her family seem detached from their Chinese heritage and are reminded by the grandmother (Tsai Chin) of their roots.
As a fan of martial arts movies, "Wendy Wu: Homecoming Warrior" is a delight, even though it's different from what I'm usually accustomed to as far as these sorts of flicks. Miraculously, the movie is able to rise above the "typical" Disney kiddie fanfare and take itself a little more seriously as a stand-alone picture. The fight scenes are choreographed well and exciting, and the martial arts battles themselves are a far cry from anything you might see in say, "Mortal Kombat." Lastly, Song does display some pretty nice moves of her own and it makes me wonder if this movie could be her ticket to a sequel or even her own spin-off series.
Such a change would certainly want to make me watch the Disney Channel a little more often.
7/10
No, Shen, I won't let you die!
MeloDee17 June 2006
Warning: Spoilers
There are several things wrong with this movie- Brenda Song's character being one of them. I do not believe that the girl is a lousy actor- I honestly don't. I believe she is given poor lines. She is just supposed to be, "that vain, rich girl", and while it is funny in the TV shows she plays in, it can't even get a dry laugh from me here.
Either way, I really should have known what to expect when I sat down to watch this film.
The movie was not that terrible...initially. Wendy's reaction to Shen was completely natural. I mean, how would you feel if a man, claiming to be a reincarnated monk, chased you around commanding you to wear a medallion and insisting that you were needed to fight "the great evil" and save the world? Which brings me to another point. I know this movie is entirely fiction, but it is still has a founding in Chinese culture. It seems like all of the "warriors" in Wendy's family line were women. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I doubt that the monks would've just been okay with that. Sure, maybe they could've worked it in somehow, but they offered no explanation whatsoever. By doing so, they just contributed to the many cheesy attempts at female empowerment made by Hollywood and the media.
Nevermind that, however- let us continue.
Wendy's character becomes more unbearable as the film go on. Yes, she is a teenager, and it is near homecoming- I mean, who wants to fight evil during homecoming? The problem is, when "the evil" starts to manifest himself, Wendy does not seem as freaked out as she should be. She is extremely careless- even for someone like her. She continues not to care about her training. I will use this conversation as an example, Shen: "If you do not win this battle, evil will take over, and everything good will be gone." Wendy: "Whoa, talk about pressure. Well...let's talk about something else." Yes, let's Wendy. Let's also go dancing when you should rightfully be training. Of course Shen lets her, but his character has an excuse. Better that he cooperate with her, than that he not, and she not train at all, and get them both killed.
Oh, speaking of which. Shen also told Wendy that it was his destiny for him to die for her in battle, as he had for her great-grandmother (I am assuming that part).
This makes Wendy's actions more unforgivable.
As the script-writer would have it, Wendy's homecoming and this "great battle" are on exactly the same day. Do you know what Wendy does? Do you even have to guess? Yes, she does end up going to the battle, for when she tries to leave for homecoming, the monks, (who Shen had trapped in the body of her coach and teachers because she "felt weird fighting an old man") inform her that Shen has gone to battle alone, so she goes to save him.
We initially see some half-decent fighting, that is actually entertaining. Until finally, the great evil comes out of Wendy's rival-for-homecoming's body, and creates the actual embodiment of himself out of the broken pieces of the bodies of his ancient warriors.
Don't ask.
Anyway, Wendy gets all "panicky." Then Shen goes and defends her from this guy- forgive me for forgetting his long Chinese name- and manages to get himself killed.
Wendy catches Shen as he makes his long descent from being thrust uncomfortably high into the air.
She screams title of said article out.
Now...it was bad enough that Wendy became powerful far, far too fast. No, I will not let it be excused because it was her "destiny" and she had "the power within" her.
Since when, though, did she learn healing? No, worst...since when could she resurrect people? So Shen is raised from the dead. Then, Wendy and he fight the guy.
He loses way to easily. The worst part, is when they jump together, and kick him at the same time, and he is banished forever. Then the monks commend Wendy on her sacrifice.
Two things, #1: Don't the script writer and director know a battle needs a little more "finesse" to it? #2: What sacrifice? The fact that she didn't go to homecoming? Because the girl did not break a sweat, or even bleed. I mean, come on now, this movie was TV PG, I wanted to see somebody get hurt.
Ah-hem...moving on.
I know it sounds like maybe I should have given the movie a one, based on my comments. Part of critique, you must know, though, is breaking a thing down. You don't necessarily try to look for the bad, but if it's there, you bring attention to it. This movie has a lot of bad, but something funny happens when you never really expect something to be all too great in the first place.
So, I suppose it was all right. Not that me not saying it wasn't all right would've stopped anybody from watching it.
Either way, I really should have known what to expect when I sat down to watch this film.
The movie was not that terrible...initially. Wendy's reaction to Shen was completely natural. I mean, how would you feel if a man, claiming to be a reincarnated monk, chased you around commanding you to wear a medallion and insisting that you were needed to fight "the great evil" and save the world? Which brings me to another point. I know this movie is entirely fiction, but it is still has a founding in Chinese culture. It seems like all of the "warriors" in Wendy's family line were women. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I doubt that the monks would've just been okay with that. Sure, maybe they could've worked it in somehow, but they offered no explanation whatsoever. By doing so, they just contributed to the many cheesy attempts at female empowerment made by Hollywood and the media.
Nevermind that, however- let us continue.
Wendy's character becomes more unbearable as the film go on. Yes, she is a teenager, and it is near homecoming- I mean, who wants to fight evil during homecoming? The problem is, when "the evil" starts to manifest himself, Wendy does not seem as freaked out as she should be. She is extremely careless- even for someone like her. She continues not to care about her training. I will use this conversation as an example, Shen: "If you do not win this battle, evil will take over, and everything good will be gone." Wendy: "Whoa, talk about pressure. Well...let's talk about something else." Yes, let's Wendy. Let's also go dancing when you should rightfully be training. Of course Shen lets her, but his character has an excuse. Better that he cooperate with her, than that he not, and she not train at all, and get them both killed.
Oh, speaking of which. Shen also told Wendy that it was his destiny for him to die for her in battle, as he had for her great-grandmother (I am assuming that part).
This makes Wendy's actions more unforgivable.
As the script-writer would have it, Wendy's homecoming and this "great battle" are on exactly the same day. Do you know what Wendy does? Do you even have to guess? Yes, she does end up going to the battle, for when she tries to leave for homecoming, the monks, (who Shen had trapped in the body of her coach and teachers because she "felt weird fighting an old man") inform her that Shen has gone to battle alone, so she goes to save him.
We initially see some half-decent fighting, that is actually entertaining. Until finally, the great evil comes out of Wendy's rival-for-homecoming's body, and creates the actual embodiment of himself out of the broken pieces of the bodies of his ancient warriors.
Don't ask.
Anyway, Wendy gets all "panicky." Then Shen goes and defends her from this guy- forgive me for forgetting his long Chinese name- and manages to get himself killed.
Wendy catches Shen as he makes his long descent from being thrust uncomfortably high into the air.
She screams title of said article out.
Now...it was bad enough that Wendy became powerful far, far too fast. No, I will not let it be excused because it was her "destiny" and she had "the power within" her.
Since when, though, did she learn healing? No, worst...since when could she resurrect people? So Shen is raised from the dead. Then, Wendy and he fight the guy.
He loses way to easily. The worst part, is when they jump together, and kick him at the same time, and he is banished forever. Then the monks commend Wendy on her sacrifice.
Two things, #1: Don't the script writer and director know a battle needs a little more "finesse" to it? #2: What sacrifice? The fact that she didn't go to homecoming? Because the girl did not break a sweat, or even bleed. I mean, come on now, this movie was TV PG, I wanted to see somebody get hurt.
Ah-hem...moving on.
I know it sounds like maybe I should have given the movie a one, based on my comments. Part of critique, you must know, though, is breaking a thing down. You don't necessarily try to look for the bad, but if it's there, you bring attention to it. This movie has a lot of bad, but something funny happens when you never really expect something to be all too great in the first place.
So, I suppose it was all right. Not that me not saying it wasn't all right would've stopped anybody from watching it.
Martial arts were a good catch; But was disappointing overall.
rachellee12002 December 2006
Warning: Spoilers
I'd give it a 2/10.
I was really, really disappointed.
The storyline was poorly developed, for instance, the incidents were too short and brief, hence the moral was not clearly brought out. I thought Brenda Song did a fine job, but Shin Koyamada seemed to have a difficult time handling his role. I could see the need to put in western elements in the show, however, there are certain parts, where Chinese elements were needed too! The villain for example. His physical appearance resembled a robot, instead of something out of the Chinese culture. The final and the worst flaw, were the incorrect, and distorted facts placed in the show.
Others may point out that this is a 'Kid's show' and hence, there is no need for the such high standards. However, there are other Disney shows, such as Mu Lan, which have been much better in terms of story development and presentation.
In conclusion, I feel that Disney movies should be better researched and better planned. A good show is not enough with just a series of martial arts moves to depend on.
I was really, really disappointed.
The storyline was poorly developed, for instance, the incidents were too short and brief, hence the moral was not clearly brought out. I thought Brenda Song did a fine job, but Shin Koyamada seemed to have a difficult time handling his role. I could see the need to put in western elements in the show, however, there are certain parts, where Chinese elements were needed too! The villain for example. His physical appearance resembled a robot, instead of something out of the Chinese culture. The final and the worst flaw, were the incorrect, and distorted facts placed in the show.
Others may point out that this is a 'Kid's show' and hence, there is no need for the such high standards. However, there are other Disney shows, such as Mu Lan, which have been much better in terms of story development and presentation.
In conclusion, I feel that Disney movies should be better researched and better planned. A good show is not enough with just a series of martial arts moves to depend on.
Too Disney Channel-sy
adlea_evanstar12 November 2006
Well I think it's a not a bad movie. The plot not very original but not too overused. It's nice to see that we have an Asian kung-fu movie type that doesn't star Jackie Chan or Jet Li for once. Brenda Song is not bad as the main character but I think the one that really shone was heart-throb Shin Koyamada.
The thing that really bothered me most was how fast that Wendy mastered Kung-Fu. A lot of the things seemed rushed and unreal. As soon as Shen said he was destined to die I knew he wouldn't, this being a Disney channel movie it would have a nice ending with the girl getting the guy. It would have been nicer if Shen had died for Brenda when she could not defend herself because she never trained. Then she understands what she needs to do and her love for Shen. Depressing maybe but if Disney Channel is going to give us happy endings every time we can guess the ending before the show even starts.
The thing that really bothered me most was how fast that Wendy mastered Kung-Fu. A lot of the things seemed rushed and unreal. As soon as Shen said he was destined to die I knew he wouldn't, this being a Disney channel movie it would have a nice ending with the girl getting the guy. It would have been nicer if Shen had died for Brenda when she could not defend herself because she never trained. Then she understands what she needs to do and her love for Shen. Depressing maybe but if Disney Channel is going to give us happy endings every time we can guess the ending before the show even starts.
Needs Revision
comingbacktoreality18 June 2006
Warning: Spoilers
I thought the movie (especially the plot) needs a lot of work. The elements of the movie remains westernized and untrue to the attempt of trying to produce an eastern feel in the movie. I'll give three out of many of the flaws of the movie:
First, when Shen told Wendy that he would help her study the history of China, I was really happy that the audience would receive some information about Chinese history; but it turns out that the movie did not exactly show Wendy actually studying Chinese history; yet instead, the movie only shows Wendy practicing the method of remembering what she had studied, which frustrated and put me in dismay.
Second, which really bothered me, is how the characters kept mentioning about moon cakes -- moon cakes this and moon cakes that and how good it tastes. Yet they didn't really mention the real significance of it. The only they they talked about that had any relevance to the moon cake was the Autumn Festival, which they did not explain or go in depth. They could have mentioned the myth that correlates with the moon cake -- the Moon Lady. The myth starts of with how there once exists ten suns and each would rotate rising, but one day all ten suns rose up, drying up the land with the rising intense heat; so the Divine Archer, Hou Yi, shot nine of the ten suns, leaving only one sun (there are different versions where the Hou Yi shot the eight out of nine suns). Because of his heroic contribution, he was given the pill of immortality so he could live on forever in case the ten suns do rise up again, but his wife, Chang-O stole it. After stealing it, she fled to the moon, where she met a hare. She then came upon an idea and told the hare to pound the pill into many piece so she could spread the pill all over earth, giving everyone immortality. (There are a few variations of this story but throughout my childhood, I, most of the time, heard about this version). I thought details such as this would make the plot more culturally Chinese oriented.
The last thing I would point out is the last battle scene of the movie. The teachers that were possessed by the monks were fighting the Terra-cotta Warriors (the life-like statues of the soldiers) went against the idea of how important Chinese history is to the Chinese. The Terra-cotta Warrors serves as a connection of China's past and it was very westernized (where evil must be killed in anyway possible) that the monks in the movies were willing to destroy that connection. It would be understandable if Wendy, considering she is Chinese-American and doesn't have full Chinese knowledge, had no problem destroying these priceless artifacts.
The whole movie was westernized because it seemed that all the monks and Shen want to do is fight... I mean, it's rated TVPG due to violence, which goes against the Confucius thinking of cooperation and harmony. It would seem more accurate that the monks try to avoid violence and try to work things out peacefully before having to resort to violence.
All in all, all of or either of the producer, writer, or director did not do their research thoroughly and did a messy and effortless job instead. I would suggest that they either stop airing this movie or that they re-shoot the movie so it contains more accurate information; however, I would give it credit (2 stars) for removing one stereotype of Asians and Asian-Americans of being smart and quiet.
First, when Shen told Wendy that he would help her study the history of China, I was really happy that the audience would receive some information about Chinese history; but it turns out that the movie did not exactly show Wendy actually studying Chinese history; yet instead, the movie only shows Wendy practicing the method of remembering what she had studied, which frustrated and put me in dismay.
Second, which really bothered me, is how the characters kept mentioning about moon cakes -- moon cakes this and moon cakes that and how good it tastes. Yet they didn't really mention the real significance of it. The only they they talked about that had any relevance to the moon cake was the Autumn Festival, which they did not explain or go in depth. They could have mentioned the myth that correlates with the moon cake -- the Moon Lady. The myth starts of with how there once exists ten suns and each would rotate rising, but one day all ten suns rose up, drying up the land with the rising intense heat; so the Divine Archer, Hou Yi, shot nine of the ten suns, leaving only one sun (there are different versions where the Hou Yi shot the eight out of nine suns). Because of his heroic contribution, he was given the pill of immortality so he could live on forever in case the ten suns do rise up again, but his wife, Chang-O stole it. After stealing it, she fled to the moon, where she met a hare. She then came upon an idea and told the hare to pound the pill into many piece so she could spread the pill all over earth, giving everyone immortality. (There are a few variations of this story but throughout my childhood, I, most of the time, heard about this version). I thought details such as this would make the plot more culturally Chinese oriented.
The last thing I would point out is the last battle scene of the movie. The teachers that were possessed by the monks were fighting the Terra-cotta Warriors (the life-like statues of the soldiers) went against the idea of how important Chinese history is to the Chinese. The Terra-cotta Warrors serves as a connection of China's past and it was very westernized (where evil must be killed in anyway possible) that the monks in the movies were willing to destroy that connection. It would be understandable if Wendy, considering she is Chinese-American and doesn't have full Chinese knowledge, had no problem destroying these priceless artifacts.
The whole movie was westernized because it seemed that all the monks and Shen want to do is fight... I mean, it's rated TVPG due to violence, which goes against the Confucius thinking of cooperation and harmony. It would seem more accurate that the monks try to avoid violence and try to work things out peacefully before having to resort to violence.
All in all, all of or either of the producer, writer, or director did not do their research thoroughly and did a messy and effortless job instead. I would suggest that they either stop airing this movie or that they re-shoot the movie so it contains more accurate information; however, I would give it credit (2 stars) for removing one stereotype of Asians and Asian-Americans of being smart and quiet.
Interesting, but full of flubs
our_scenex5 July 2006
Warning: Spoilers
Uh this was a very interesting movie. I have to say it was one of the better Disney Channel Original Movies, aside from the Color of Friendship (which tops the DCOM charts). Like others, I saw many similarities to Buffy the Vampire Slayer, mainly the original movie. Such as the warrior (slayer) looking the same throughout each life, as well as the mentor. Note the line: "You look
different." They both revolve around an important dance to the warrior, and the final battle happening at such time.
I think this is the first DCOM that features violence, but don't quote that. It's nice to know that Brenda Strong did at least some of the martial arts in the movie. Or at least I assume so, as she is a black belt in Tae Kwan Doe. So she must have put it to good use in this film.
But this movie was full of goofs, some that are just funny. Some cultural misunderstandings. I'm not sure on this one, but inside the mooncake is looks as if its filling is chocolate, and yet Shen says, "I've never had chocolate." Though this filling may as well be Jujube paste which is a very dark red that can appear black-brown.
I wish they would have respected Buddha a bit more in the final fight. I wish the statue hadn't been included in it, such as Wendy using it to pivot off it. Also this movie gives us heaps of stereotypes that have been used since the beginning of time.
The idea of this film wasn't exactly original, but it was enjoyable nonetheless.
I think this is the first DCOM that features violence, but don't quote that. It's nice to know that Brenda Strong did at least some of the martial arts in the movie. Or at least I assume so, as she is a black belt in Tae Kwan Doe. So she must have put it to good use in this film.
But this movie was full of goofs, some that are just funny. Some cultural misunderstandings. I'm not sure on this one, but inside the mooncake is looks as if its filling is chocolate, and yet Shen says, "I've never had chocolate." Though this filling may as well be Jujube paste which is a very dark red that can appear black-brown.
I wish they would have respected Buddha a bit more in the final fight. I wish the statue hadn't been included in it, such as Wendy using it to pivot off it. Also this movie gives us heaps of stereotypes that have been used since the beginning of time.
The idea of this film wasn't exactly original, but it was enjoyable nonetheless.
Pretty Awful, But Brenda Song is beautiful
freakfire-124 March 2008
There isn't more I can say that saying this film was awful. The whole Chineseness is awakened in your being because of the ancestors was a hard sell. But telling the audience that every Chinese knows Chinese history without even studying it just laughable. That is like saying every American knows American history without studying or every Filipino, etc, etc. It just isn't believable.
The story is flat out hideous. It talked about Shin being from a Monastery in China - later identifying it from Bejing. However, the early sequences of the film show the map focusing in on Mongolia. I know the current Chinese regime wants to claim areas like Mongolia for its own, granted. But its a distinct nation and it even labels "Mongolia" on the map. Did Disney Studios fail 5th Grade Geography?
The relationship between Wendy and Shin is superficial at best, and yet she somehow feels connected to him. Her training is just cheesy as well. And, lets cut to the chase: everything about this film is bad. Its bad enough to laugh at and cry over. The Taekwondo action was over played and unrealistic in many instances.
The evil eyes thing was cheesy. However, the left out ending would have been the only descent thing about it. They should have left the evil eyes ending in it. But instead somehow evil is defeated. Yey!
Overall,not worth the time of the dog in the film. Brenda Song should get on with another studio. "F"
The story is flat out hideous. It talked about Shin being from a Monastery in China - later identifying it from Bejing. However, the early sequences of the film show the map focusing in on Mongolia. I know the current Chinese regime wants to claim areas like Mongolia for its own, granted. But its a distinct nation and it even labels "Mongolia" on the map. Did Disney Studios fail 5th Grade Geography?
The relationship between Wendy and Shin is superficial at best, and yet she somehow feels connected to him. Her training is just cheesy as well. And, lets cut to the chase: everything about this film is bad. Its bad enough to laugh at and cry over. The Taekwondo action was over played and unrealistic in many instances.
The evil eyes thing was cheesy. However, the left out ending would have been the only descent thing about it. They should have left the evil eyes ending in it. But instead somehow evil is defeated. Yey!
Overall,not worth the time of the dog in the film. Brenda Song should get on with another studio. "F"
A Guilty Pleasure of Mine
madwitch6122 June 2007
This is a guilty pleasure of mine. It's not Enter the Dragon or Crouching Tiger, or even Clueless (In terms of High School Comedies)
Pluses: the Choreography is impressive. Shin Komida and Brenda Song have great chemistry and comedic timing. Brenda Song's perky cute style makes an otherwise annoyingly-written character likable, and she does most of her own stunts! Some of the jokes are giggle-worthy and the effects are good for a TV production. Power Ranger Fans will enjoy seeing the Blue Wind Ranger from Ninja Storm in a back-up role. The movie doesn't take itself that seriously, and you shouldn't either. The movie's "Don't forget your roots" message is effectively delivered.
Negatives: The movie does get hammy at times during the "serious" moments. The Chinese culture is boiled down, and some of the characters' motivation is very shallow. Strike that, a lot of the motivation is shallow, because the Disney Channel seriously underestimates the intelligence of its target audience.
This movie is for you if: You enjoy Disney Channel Original Movies for what they are. Parents who love Wired-Fu and Hong Kong action flicks and want to share that love with their younger kids, if they don't have the reading speed to enjoy subtitles. You ever wanted to suddenly discover you had mystical martial arts powers and beat up your high school tormentors This movie isn't for you if: You look at every movie as if you were the Academy Awards Panel. Just take it at face value, and have fun!
Pluses: the Choreography is impressive. Shin Komida and Brenda Song have great chemistry and comedic timing. Brenda Song's perky cute style makes an otherwise annoyingly-written character likable, and she does most of her own stunts! Some of the jokes are giggle-worthy and the effects are good for a TV production. Power Ranger Fans will enjoy seeing the Blue Wind Ranger from Ninja Storm in a back-up role. The movie doesn't take itself that seriously, and you shouldn't either. The movie's "Don't forget your roots" message is effectively delivered.
Negatives: The movie does get hammy at times during the "serious" moments. The Chinese culture is boiled down, and some of the characters' motivation is very shallow. Strike that, a lot of the motivation is shallow, because the Disney Channel seriously underestimates the intelligence of its target audience.
This movie is for you if: You enjoy Disney Channel Original Movies for what they are. Parents who love Wired-Fu and Hong Kong action flicks and want to share that love with their younger kids, if they don't have the reading speed to enjoy subtitles. You ever wanted to suddenly discover you had mystical martial arts powers and beat up your high school tormentors This movie isn't for you if: You look at every movie as if you were the Academy Awards Panel. Just take it at face value, and have fun!
Chinese? Yeah. Right.
xiaolongnu45817 July 2006
I am so insulted by this movie, it's not even funny... And I thought "Mulan" was unbelievable! However low my expectations of Disney have become, I never figured they'd do something so stereotypical yet so off. There is no respect here for any true Chinese culture, just the Hollywood tradition of random martial arts.
I appreciate that they tried to make Wendy into a normal teenage girl... But, fortunately, most normal teenage girls--particularly Asian teenage girls--are much less obsessed with such shallow aspects of life. And from a cultural stand point, it's almost impossible. Yes, there are girls who are wrapped up in popularity and fashion, but they're pretty rare. And even the ones who are are still fairly decent scholars. Another stereotype, maybe, but a fairly true one. Because that's how Chinese parents work. That's how Chinese values work. If they wanted to go for authenticity, they would've made Wendy an ironic girl with glasses and a love-hate relationship with her family.
This just adds to my frustration with American movies. Asian culture isn't about meditation and vague, nature-oriented phrases that sound wise. We don't walk around smiling enigmatically all the time, and we don't all know some form of martial arts. We're a PEOPLE, and I'd appreciate it if someone would write an Asian part that doesn't portray us as some sad caricature.
I appreciate that they tried to make Wendy into a normal teenage girl... But, fortunately, most normal teenage girls--particularly Asian teenage girls--are much less obsessed with such shallow aspects of life. And from a cultural stand point, it's almost impossible. Yes, there are girls who are wrapped up in popularity and fashion, but they're pretty rare. And even the ones who are are still fairly decent scholars. Another stereotype, maybe, but a fairly true one. Because that's how Chinese parents work. That's how Chinese values work. If they wanted to go for authenticity, they would've made Wendy an ironic girl with glasses and a love-hate relationship with her family.
This just adds to my frustration with American movies. Asian culture isn't about meditation and vague, nature-oriented phrases that sound wise. We don't walk around smiling enigmatically all the time, and we don't all know some form of martial arts. We're a PEOPLE, and I'd appreciate it if someone would write an Asian part that doesn't portray us as some sad caricature.
A very enjoyable movie
shawnacourtney17 June 2006
Wendy Wu Homecoming Warrior was a delightful movie to watch and it was so much fun! I usually don't enjoy kung-fu Jackie Chan type movies, but this was completely different. They blended the kung fu fighting in with plain fun high school life and laugh out loud moments creating a very satisfying experience. And, if that wasn't good enough, Brenda Song does a wonderful acting job and comes off very likable and real. This is a great movie for adults and kids alike, there is nothing inappropriate that I could see, which I was very happy about, and I was not afraid to sit and watch it with my parents. This (second only to High School Musical) is the best Disney movie I have seen in a long time! A great film.
Surprisingly good...
paul_haakonsen2 November 2019
Granted, I have seen the face of Brenda Song once or twice before while my son has been flipping past the Disney channel, so I can't really claim to be overly familiar with her. Much less did I know that she was actually in a movie such as this.
Sure, this is a Disney movie after all, but it turned out to actually be a very enjoyable family martial arts and light action movie. Parts of that was because of the storyline, but certainly also because of the cast that they had gotten together for this movie.
I must admit that I was surprised with the level of entertainment that a movie like "Wendy Wu: Homecoming Warrior" turned out to be. I was actually hooked from the very moment and up to the very end. So despite this being a Disney movie, then don't let that discourage you. This is definitely a movie well worth sitting down to watch with the family.
Indeed, there were goofy moments throughout the course of the movie, but they worked well in favor of the movie, with this being a family movie and all. So there is a good combination of action, storytelling and wholehearted entertaining for the entire family to be had in "Wendy Wu: Homecoming Warrior".
My rating for the movie is a six out of ten stars. And I will say that you should definitely sit down and watch this with the family, if you get the chance.
Sure, this is a Disney movie after all, but it turned out to actually be a very enjoyable family martial arts and light action movie. Parts of that was because of the storyline, but certainly also because of the cast that they had gotten together for this movie.
I must admit that I was surprised with the level of entertainment that a movie like "Wendy Wu: Homecoming Warrior" turned out to be. I was actually hooked from the very moment and up to the very end. So despite this being a Disney movie, then don't let that discourage you. This is definitely a movie well worth sitting down to watch with the family.
Indeed, there were goofy moments throughout the course of the movie, but they worked well in favor of the movie, with this being a family movie and all. So there is a good combination of action, storytelling and wholehearted entertaining for the entire family to be had in "Wendy Wu: Homecoming Warrior".
My rating for the movie is a six out of ten stars. And I will say that you should definitely sit down and watch this with the family, if you get the chance.
What the????? Disney Channel keeps getting worse and worse by the minute.....
sethn17222 January 2007
I'm here again in your local shopping mall (of course, 'cause that's where the high school kids hang out!!!!!) to demonstrate how awful "BENDY POO: PROM COURIER" really is!!!!! To prove how bad this joke of a DCOM this is...
...we're going to take these four sumo wrestlers, and stuff them into this photo booth. How...cozy!!!!!
Hai! Huuuuuuuarrrrghhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Uh!!!!!
How awful is it????? It's so bad, Disney Channel flushes away its money, yet again, with those exciting yet determining 10-second promos, keeping the viewers wondering, "WHEN IS THIS GOING TO BE ON?????" And then, suddenly, when it DOES come on, for one, this not only got a higher TV rating than usual, but this was only seen once!!!!! Oh, no!!!!! One time everyone!!!!! Plus, this movie is about high school and stuff, and believe me, I will NOT go any further with what else is in there.....
Say ch...smile!!!!! (SNAP!)
Avoid this one at all costs. 0/10
...we're going to take these four sumo wrestlers, and stuff them into this photo booth. How...cozy!!!!!
Hai! Huuuuuuuarrrrghhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Uh!!!!!
How awful is it????? It's so bad, Disney Channel flushes away its money, yet again, with those exciting yet determining 10-second promos, keeping the viewers wondering, "WHEN IS THIS GOING TO BE ON?????" And then, suddenly, when it DOES come on, for one, this not only got a higher TV rating than usual, but this was only seen once!!!!! Oh, no!!!!! One time everyone!!!!! Plus, this movie is about high school and stuff, and believe me, I will NOT go any further with what else is in there.....
Say ch...smile!!!!! (SNAP!)
Avoid this one at all costs. 0/10
Can you say fake?
americandragonfreak2 July 2006
Worst DCOM I have seen. Ever. Well, maybe not as bad as Smart House. This was just bad. The acting and story was fine, but the effects SUCKED!
They were so fake! The only good fight scene was between the brother and Shen. That was probably the only scene in which I was excited.
Overall, I found this movie very boring and the film kind of ended suddenly.
I will give it a four for Brenda Song who is a very funny actress and that one fight scene.
4/10
They were so fake! The only good fight scene was between the brother and Shen. That was probably the only scene in which I was excited.
Overall, I found this movie very boring and the film kind of ended suddenly.
I will give it a four for Brenda Song who is a very funny actress and that one fight scene.
4/10
Disney Tries Too Hard
DiamondGirl42730 June 2010
This is basic Disney fare. Cute and kinda of funny...clearly aimed at teen and pre-teen audiences. No problem there..but I did have a problem with Brenda Song trying to step away fromo her "London Tipton" role...she barely pulled it off. At any moment I was expecting a dumb comment or one of those vauge "duh" looks to come over her. She obviously was playing a bit of a spoiled high school girl..not a real stretch I suppose. The idea of the story was nothing new...it was pure Disney. What always gets me in these films is while these magical things are going on..no normal person in the film seems to notice anything. In this one...I wondered why the Grandmother had not bothered to start training her granddaughter earlier if she khew what was going to happen? As always...Disney stories involve growing up and finding happy endings..which this one does...after quite a bit of annoying things in between.
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