Donnie Yen is one of the most consistent action stars, having resume that spans decades and while other colossal names such as Jet Li or Jackie Chan has slowed down, he is still going strong. This, ironically, can also work against him since he already has played in two Ip Man films and with more works depicting the famous character, this theme can become overly used. Luckily, Ip Man 3 shifts into a more private direction while still equipped with the lighting speed blows.
The story has multiple subplots, ranging from usual the thug encounter to problems on Ip Man's household. There's still glimpse of the nationalism angle from the first two movies, although fortunately not as prevalent. Use of jingoism has become stale and it'd make a predictable vilified antagonist. This time around the script has more balance and modesty, it's intended to be accessible for wider range of audience.
As far as acting goes, leads Donnie Yen and Lynn Hung perform well. This is a family oriented relationship with drama or romance taking the secondary role. Its use of many subplots, thus a larger number of antagonists, can be distracting at times. Some of the dialogues sound rather too overblown for theatrical effect, although luckily they're not dominant enough to be disrupting.
Ip Man also attracts a certain expectation for fight scenes, one which is sufficiently delivered here. It uses less wire choreography and opts for a faster close quarter combat. The cinematography involved is very precise, showing a vast experience and understanding of clashing fists and spatial awareness for the dance. This makes every encounter unique, from the all-out brawl in the dock, skirmish in small stores or apartments to the occasional high octane duels. A nod goes to the scene with Mike Tyson in its entire fanservice splendor.
The distinct combat choreography, which still looks fast and fresh, will satisfy action fans, yet the humble perspective gives a hearty humane side for the larger-than-life character.
