Ip Man 2(葉問2)

Time Out by

Yip's chop-socky sequel does manage to up the (admittedly modest) ante of the original.

San Francisco Chronicle by Amy Biancolli

If the movie packs a weaker punch than the original, it has less to do with the action sequences than the script (by Edmond Wong, son of Raymond, who wrote the first), a flimsy affair with subpar villains.

New York Daily News by Joe Neumaier

With action this strong, the script just needs to be serviceable - and that's exactly what it is.

The New York Times by Manohla Dargis

Choreographed by the film martial-arts veteran Sammo Hung, the fights are spectacularly designed and performed, relying more on muscle and skill than wirework.

Village Voice by Nick Schager

A redundant if nonetheless occasionally thrilling follow-up bolstered by star Donnie Yen's precision combat skills.

Portland Oregonian by Shawn Levy

An energetic, witty and altogether well-built martial arts drama that is familiar in many ways but distinguished by its high level of craft, its sincere sentiment and drama, and the forceful charisma of its star, Donnie Yen.

New York Post by V.A. Musetto

The piéce de résistance is a "Rocky"-ish battle between bare-fisted Ip (Donnie Yen) and a racist Brit who uses boxing gloves and goes by the name Twister.

Boxoffice Magazine by Wade Major

A superbly well-crafted film, faithful to its cultural and cinematic heritage, and easily one of the most enjoyable entertainments of a still nascent 2011 post-holiday season.