Introduction
The Traveller, directed by Wuershan and Xia Peng, is a highly anticipated fantasy action film adapted from the popular Chinese comic One Person Below. The movie, which hit Chinese theaters on July 26, 2024, stars Hu Xianxu, Li Wanda, Feng Shaofeng, Qiao Zhenyu, and a host of other notable actors. While the film has generated significant buzz, the reviews have been mixed, with audiences and critics divided on its execution and artistic merit.
Plot Summary
The story follows Zhang Chulai (Hu Xianxu), who has been hiding his identity as an 异人 (yi ren, or stranger in English) until he meets the mysterious冯宝宝 (Li Wanda). Their encounter pulls Zhang into a world of conflict among different yi ren factions, including Nodu, Quan Xing, Tianxia Association, and Tian Yi Gate. As Zhang’s secret as the heir of the mysterious Qi Body Origin technique becomes public, the yi ren community engages in a fierce struggle to control him. Amidst this chaos, Zhang uncovers a long-hidden secret from the past.
Visual and Special Effects
One of the film’s highlights is its visual and special effects, which have been praised for their quality and creativity. The movie features approximately 20 minutes of animated sequences that blend seamlessly with live-action footage. However, some critics argue that the animation quality is inconsistent, with occasional moments that appear to have a low-quality, AI-generated feel.
Performances
The performances in The Traveller have been a point of contention among viewers. Hu Xianxu’s portrayal of Zhang Chulai has received mixed reviews. Some audience members find his performance natural and engaging, while others believe he fails to bring enough depth to the character. Li Wanda’s performance as Feng Bao has also drawn mixed reactions, with some praising her for bringing a unique and captivating presence to the screen.
Controversies and Criticisms
Despite its popularity, The Traveller has not been without its controversies. Some critics have slammed the film for its use of low-brow humor and vulgar jokes, which they argue detract from the overall experience. Additionally, the film’s score has been criticized for its apparent lack of originality, with some suggesting it relies too heavily on free stock music from platforms like Douyin.
Another significant point of criticism is the film’s storytelling and character development. Some viewers feel that the film fails to create a coherent and engaging narrative, with characters feeling one-dimensional and the plot feeling disjointed. One critic from Shanghai described the film as boring to the point where audiences began leaving the theater.
box Office Performance and Reception
Despite the mixed reviews, The Traveller has performed well at the box office, grossing millions in its opening weekend. The film’s marketing campaign, which includes a variety of promotional events and merchandise, has also helped to boost its visibility.
On platforms like Douban, the film has a rating of 5.9 out of 10, with a mix of positive and negative reviews. Some audience members have praised the film for its entertainment value and stunning visuals, while others have criticized it for its lack of originality and poor storytelling.
Conclusion
The Traveller is a visually impressive film that has divided audiences and critics alike. While it offers stunning visuals and some strong performances, it also faces criticism for its storytelling, humor, and use of special effects. As a adaptation of a beloved comic, it has succeeded in bringing the world of One Person Below to life, but whether it will be remembered as a classic or a forgettable addition to the genre remains to be seen.
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