Many thanks to Starburst for tweeting their link!
Iain McNally has reviewed Keanu Reeves’ directorial debut Man of Tai Chi for Starburst Magazine. Their FB page indicates that they are based in the UK. They are billed as the world’s longest running sci-fi horror and fantasy magazine.
McNally notes that the film is based in reality but it is the minor fantasical element near the climax that earned the film inclusion in Starburst. In addition to a brief synopsis, the reviewer notes that while Reeves had to punt on the use of the Dolly Bot rig, the fight scenes were solid and visceral with the camera staying in close to capture the fight progression and impressive moves.
He closes with:
Acting-wise Chen is likeable as the lead and Reeves provides a first-rate antagonist, even getting his hands dirty later in the film. Man of Tai Chi should appeal to all fans of Hong Kong (and international) action cinema and shows a promising start to what will hopefully be a long and interesting directing career for Reeves.
The film was given a rating of 8/10. While China did not appear to appreciate the film, reviews out of western countries continue to be quite decent.