Before we get started, if you have yet to check out our review on Stephen Chows latest film, the 2016 comedy The Mermaid, check it out HERE!
Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons follows the story of amateur demon hunter Tang Sanzang (Wen Zhang) prior to his journey to the west with his disciples. With Director Chow's signature exaggerated comedy this film takes a classic tale and turns it into a ridiculously enjoyable film.
As Tang Sanzang begins his journey to rid the world of demons with only his book of nursery rhymes, he meets the beautiful, yet tough demon huntress, Duan (Shu Qui). Overtime, a strange romance between them forms as they come face to face with other demons, including a pig demon that is much tougher than previous monsters. As the journey continues, Tang Sanzang is advised that he must find the infamous Monkey King, and trick him into helping them destroy the pig demon. 
When I first began watching this film, I had no idea Stephen Chow was the director. However, within minutes of the film, I realized he was due to his directing style and comedic effects primarily used in all of his films. Though the movie has extremely dark, and upsetting scenes, overall the humor Chow is so well known for, is there.
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| Jumanji anyone?! haha |
The graphics for this films were pretty good. I was actually surprised the graphics for this film seemed more realistic to the graphics used in his most recent film, The Mermaid. Perhaps the budget was bigger for this epic adventure film. I definitely found a lot of enjoyment in this film. Since the story the film is based on is so well known through out Chinese literature, I think Director Chow took a huge risk by adding his comedic flare to it. However, by doing this, I also think it makes a storyline that might not be everyone's cup of tea, into a film that is more well perceived.
It has been confirmed that a sequel to this film will be released sometime next year, however, Stephen Chow will not be returning to the Director's chair. Instead Tsui Hark (A Better Tomorrow, Once Upon a Time in China) will be taking on this role. None of the original actors will be returning to their roles though, so I do not have hope it will be as fun and exciting as this film. Speaking of other films, this year another Journey to The West film is to be released, as we had mentioned in our Most Anticipated East Asian films of 2016 list. Check it out HERE!
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