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Once Upon a Time in China V
Movie

Once Upon a Time in China V

1994 • Unknown

Woke Score
2
out of 10

Plot

Epic adventure set during a tumultuous time in China, when left without a leader, the cavalry is attacked by the powerful allies and pirate bands. A martial arts master, Wong Fei-Hong and Aunt Yee return to do battle against these evil forces.

Overall Series Review

Once Upon a Time in China V finds the revered martial arts master Wong Fei-hung and his companions in a desolate port town following the collapse of the Qing Dynasty. The narrative centers on a local crisis: the authorities have fled, leaving the citizens and military vulnerable to Chinese pirate bands. The film’s focus is squarely on restoring order and defending the community from internal lawlessness and corruption. Wong Fei-hung’s heroism is defined by his moral integrity, martial skill, and dedication to his home, offering a clear presentation of objective virtue against vice. The themes involve the continuity of Chinese identity and tradition in chaotic times, rather than a critique of the culture itself. The primary conflict is a fight for the soul of the community, where merit and justice are the central values.

Categorical Breakdown

Identity Politics2/10

The movie does not use race or immutable characteristics to determine moral standing. The main villains are Chinese pirates, not foreign colonialists, shifting the conflict from 'systemic oppression' to a universal fight against crime and corruption. Characters are judged solely on their merit and morality. The casting is historically authentic, featuring Chinese actors in all lead roles.

Oikophobia2/10

The central action involves the protagonist, a Chinese folk hero, protecting his home region and people against internal anarchy and abandonment by the central government. The hero's traditional martial arts and medical practice represent the strengths of Chinese culture and heritage, viewing institutions and ancestors as sources of protective strength during a period of civilizational uncertainty.

Feminism2/10

Gender dynamics revolve around a traditional love triangle between Wong Fei-hung, 13th Aunt, and 14th Aunt. A prominent female antagonist is characterized as a 'villainous femme fatale' who is seductive and deadly. The film does not contain 'Girl Boss' tropes, emasculation of the male lead, or anti-family messaging, favoring traditional, albeit complicated, romantic and dramatic roles for women.

LGBTQ+1/10

No elements of queer theory, alternative sexualities, or explicit deconstruction of the nuclear family are present in the plot. The romantic relationships focus on the traditional male-female pairing, and sexuality remains private and subservient to the action and moral plotline.

Anti-Theism2/10

The conflict is largely secular, dealing with political collapse and piracy. The hero, Wong Fei-hung, is a figure of objective moral law and justice through his adherence to martial ethics and traditional medicine. Faith and objective truth are upheld implicitly through the hero's actions, which oppose moral relativism.