You are here:

Once Upon a Time in China V

Name: Once Upon a Time in China V
Director: Tsui Hark
Released: 1994
Duration: 101 min

Representation Score

6.5/10

Good

1994

Not Rated

Director

Tsui Hark

Runtime

101 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Tsui Hark's film offers a progressive perspective through post-colonial themes rather than individual identity politics. By focusing on the struggle of the local population against foreign encroachment, the film challenges Western-centric cinematic norms. However, it adheres to traditional genre conventions, such as masculine heroism, and lacks representation of LGBTQ+ individuals and disabilities.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Once Upon a Time in China V have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

There are no LGBTQ+ characters or narratives focusing on non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth identities in the film.

How does Once Upon a Time in China V portray gender?

Fair

The narrative focuses on the masculine hero as the main driver of change. Female characters play important roles but are mostly in supporting roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Once Upon a Time in China V?

Good

The film highlights Chinese sovereignty and resistance against foreign colonial threats. This provides a nuanced look at ethnic identity from a non-Western perspective.

How does Once Upon a Time in China V represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The story critiques the Qing dynasty's corrupt bureaucracy and colonial powers. It emphasizes national identity and uses martial arts to challenge institutional corruption.

Does Once Upon a Time in China V include disability representation?

Limited

Characters are defined by their physical strength and martial abilities. There is no significant focus on visible or invisible disabilities.

Present on Screen

Strong portrayal of post-colonial tensions and Chinese sovereignty.
Nuanced exploration of ethnic and national identity.
Sophisticated critique of corrupt institutional and colonial power structures.

Limited or Absent

Lack of LGBTQ+ visibility and non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth representation.
Dependence on traditional gender hierarchies and masculine-centric heroism.
Limited focus on physical and neurodivergent diversity.

Official Synopsis

After the authorities flee China with public funds, Wong Fei-Hung battles pirates and corrupt officials to help the government restore peace.

How are these scores produced? →