Tai Chi Zero (2012)
A steampunk martial arts adventure set in legendary Chen Village, where an unlikely outsider must earn the right to learn a forbidden fighting art.
Tai Chi Zero - Movie Information
- Original Title: 太极1: 从零开始
- Release Year: 2012
- Directed by: Stephen Fung
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Action, Drama
- Age Rating (US): PG-13
- Runtime: 1h 40m
- Original Language: Chinese
- Spoken Languages: English, Mandarin
- Release Date (Theatrical): September 27, 2012 (Belgium - AL), October 19, 2012 (United States - PG-13), April 24, 2013 (Germany - 12), September 27, 2012 (China)
- Alternative Titles: Tai.Chi.0 (US), Tai Chi 0 (HK), 太极 1 (CN), Tai Chi Zero (FR), O Mestre da Guerra (BR)
- Production Companies: Huayi Brothers Pictures 浙江华谊兄弟影业, Diversion Pictures
- Production Countries: China
Tai Chi Zero - Plot
In legendary Chen Village, everyone is a martial arts master, using their powerful Chen Style Tai Chi in all aspects of their lives. Lu Chan has arrived to train, but the villagers are forbidden to teach Chen Style to outsiders, and do their best to discourage him by challenging him to a series of fights. Everyone, from strong men to young children, defeats him using their Tai Chi moves. But when a man from the village's past returns with a frightening steam-powered machine and plans to build a railroad through the village at any costs, the villagers realize they may have no choice but to put their faith in Lu Chan... who has a secret power of his own.
Tai Chi Zero - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see the clash of tradition and steam-powered ambition unfold:
See the extraordinary life of founder of the Yang style Tai Chi.
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Tai Chi Zero - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Stephen Fung
Main Cast
- Jayden Yuan
- Fung Hak-On
- Stephen Fung
- Shu Qi
- Andrew Lau Wai-Keung
- Bruce Leung Siu-Lung
- AngelaBaby
- Eddie Peng Yu-Yan
- Dillon Wu Di
- Chen Sicheng
Writers
- Chen Kuofu
- Cheng Hsiao-Tse
- Zhang Jialu
Producers
- Wang Liqun
- Zhu Jing
Tai Chi Zero - FAQs
Where can you stream Tai Chi Zero?
Tai Chi Zero is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video, fuboTV, and Hi-YAH. It can also be watched free with ads on Tubi TV, The Roku Channel, YouTube Free, and Hoopla. Rental and purchase options are available on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and YouTube.
Is Tai Chi Zero based on a true story?
Tai Chi Zero is loosely inspired by the legendary origins of Yang-style Tai Chi. The central character, Lu Chan, is based on Yang Luchan, a historical figure credited with founding Yang-style Tai Chi after training in Chen Village. The film blends this historical basis with heavy steampunk fantasy and martial arts action.
Who are the main actors in Tai Chi Zero?
Tai Chi Zero stars Jayden Yuan as the protagonist Lu Chan (The Freak), AngelaBaby as Chen Yu Niang, Eddie Peng Yu-Yan as the antagonist Fang Zi Jing, Shu Qi as Mother Yang, and Bruce Leung Siu-Lung as Dong. Tony Leung Ka-fai also appears as Chen Chang Xing.
What is the steampunk element in Tai Chi Zero?
Tai Chi Zero blends traditional Chinese martial arts with a bold steampunk aesthetic. A Western-educated villain returns to Chen Village operating a massive steam-powered drilling machine, threatening to bulldoze the community to lay a railroad. This clash between ancient tradition and industrial modernity is central to the film's visual identity and conflict.
What is Tai Chi Zero about?
Tai Chi Zero follows Lu Chan, an outsider with a mysterious power, who travels to Chen Village to learn the legendary Chen-style Tai Chi. Rejected by villagers who forbid teaching outsiders, he endures repeated defeats. When a steam-powered machine threatens the village, the community must reconsider placing their trust in Lu Chan.
What is the age rating for Tai Chi Zero?
Tai Chi Zero is rated PG-13 in the United States, indicating it may contain material unsuitable for children under 13. The film features stylized martial arts combat, action sequences, and mild violence consistent with its genre. It is generally suitable for teens and adults who enjoy action-adventure films.
How long is Tai Chi Zero?
Tai Chi Zero has a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes (100 minutes). The film moves at a brisk, energetic pace, combining rapid-fire martial arts sequences with steampunk visuals and comedic moments, making it an accessible and entertaining watch for action and martial arts fans.
Is Tai Chi Zero connected to a sequel?
Yes. Tai Chi Zero is the first installment in a two-part series. It was released back-to-back with its sequel, Tai Chi Hero (2012), also directed by Stephen Fung. The two films were shot simultaneously and together tell the complete story of Lu Chan's journey to master Chen-style Tai Chi and found the Yang style.
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