The Forbidden Kingdom Review
RYAN: OMG “The Forbidden Kingdom” is one of the best movies ever!
CAROLINE: Sizneriously?
RYAN: Yes. It’s basically a retelling of “The Wizard of Oz” starring the kid who played Jack’s son on “Will & Grace.” And he’s looking a little Shia LeBeouf-ish these days.
CAROLINE: Well, no wonder you liked it so much given your love of all things “Wizard of Oz.” Care to elaborate?
RYAN: It’s about four friends on a journey together, each seeking their own desire, and the main character’s ultimate goal is to get home.
CAROLINE: So where does the kung fu come in?
RYAN: The martial arts scenes are so beautifully choreographed it’s almost like watching a Broadway musical. It’s incredibly delightful. The fight scenes come in because there’s sort of a war happening.
CAROLINE: Sounds kind of like “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.”
RYAN: Not at all in plot; but it’s visually reminiscent of “Crouching Tiger” except with a lot more fantasy and it’s altogether more beautiful.
CAROLINE: Does the kid from “Will & Grace” get to do karate?
RYAN: Yes, and he also has some shirtless scenes. Boyfriend is ripped.
CAROLINE: Someone’s all grown up! How are Jackie Chan and Jet Li in their first ever movie appearance together?
CAROLINE: Yes, but who’s better?
RYAN: Jackie Chan. But he has a much bigger role too. I also want to mention the witch. There’s a really fun, fresh take on the witch in this movie, and even though it’s live-action, the movie almost seemed like it could all be animated.
CAROLINE: Well, thank God I didn’t see it then. Sounds much more up your alley than mine. Bottom line?
RYAN: I recommend this movie wholeheartedly, and it must, must, must be seen on the big screen. It’s a real adventure; just it’s thrilling on many levels. Run, don’t walk, to theater.