Hey guys! Let's dive into Vanguard, the 2020 action flick that brought Jackie Chan back to the big screen! This movie is a wild ride, packed with international espionage, breathtaking stunts, and a whole lot of explosions. If you're an action junkie like me, you've probably already seen it, but let's break down what makes Vanguard a memorable, if somewhat chaotic, cinematic experience. We'll cover everything from the plot to the cast and why, despite some mixed reviews, it’s still a fun watch.

What is Vanguard?

Vanguard centers around a covert security company called, you guessed it, Vanguard. Led by Tang Huanting, played by the legendary Jackie Chan, Vanguard is tasked with protecting a wealthy accountant, Qin Guoli, and his daughter, Fareeda, from a deadly mercenary group. Qin has been coerced into funding the activities of a notorious terrorist organization, and now that he wants out, they want him silenced. The chase takes us across the globe, from London to Africa, Dubai, and finally to India, showcasing a variety of exotic locations and intense action sequences.

The film opens with a high-stakes rescue mission in London, where Vanguard thwarts an attempt to kidnap Qin Guoli. This sets the stage for the relentless pursuit that follows. As the story progresses, we learn more about Qin’s involvement with the terrorist group and the extent of their reach. The Vanguard team, comprised of highly skilled operatives, uses all their expertise and cutting-edge technology to protect their clients and stop the terrorists' nefarious plans. The narrative is filled with twists and turns, keeping you guessing as to who the real enemies are and what their ultimate goals might be. It’s a classic Jackie Chan adventure, blending humor with heart-pounding action.

One of the standout aspects of Vanguard is its commitment to practical effects and elaborate set pieces. The action sequences are incredibly ambitious, featuring everything from high-speed chases on land and water to intense hand-to-hand combat. Jackie Chan, even in his later years, brings his signature blend of martial arts and comedic timing to the forefront. The supporting cast, including Yang Yang, Miya Muqi, and Ai Lun, also delivers solid performances, each bringing their unique skills and personalities to the team dynamic. The movie aims to deliver a non-stop thrill ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat. However, the plot can be a bit convoluted at times, requiring you to pay close attention to keep up with all the characters and their motivations.

The Cast and Characters

Vanguard boasts an international cast led by the iconic Jackie Chan. He plays Tang Huanting, the leader of the Vanguard security company. His character is a seasoned professional, deeply committed to protecting those in need, and he brings his signature charm and martial arts skills to the role. Chan’s presence alone is enough to draw in fans, and he doesn’t disappoint, delivering plenty of acrobatic stunts and humorous moments.

Yang Yang stars as Lei Zhenyu, one of the key members of the Vanguard team. He is portrayed as a highly skilled and resourceful operative, often taking the lead in tactical operations. Yang Yang’s character is known for his quick thinking and bravery, making him an invaluable asset to the team. His chemistry with Jackie Chan is also a highlight, adding an extra layer of camaraderie to the group dynamic.

Miya Muqi plays Mirei, another important member of Vanguard. She is depicted as a tough and capable agent, specializing in intelligence gathering and close combat. Miya Muqi brings a strong presence to her role, showcasing her martial arts skills and adding a layer of depth to the team’s capabilities. Her character is both fierce and intelligent, making her a formidable opponent to their adversaries.

Ai Lun portrays Zhang Kaixuan, providing comic relief as the team’s tech expert. His character is responsible for providing technical support and innovative gadgets to aid Vanguard’s missions. Ai Lun’s comedic timing and quirky personality add a lighthearted element to the film, balancing out the intense action sequences. His character is both funny and surprisingly resourceful, often coming up with creative solutions to complex problems.

The film also features other notable actors, including Fady Zaky as Broto, one of the antagonists, and Jackson Lou as Qin Guoli, the accountant Vanguard is tasked with protecting. Each actor brings their own unique talents to the film, creating a diverse and engaging cast of characters. The interactions between the cast members are one of the film’s strengths, adding depth and complexity to the story.

Production and Release

The production of Vanguard was an ambitious undertaking, with filming taking place in multiple countries, including the UK, Zambia, India, and the UAE. The film is directed by Stanley Tong, who has a long-standing collaboration with Jackie Chan, having worked together on numerous successful action films. Their partnership ensures that Vanguard delivers the kind of high-octane action and thrilling stunts that fans have come to expect.

The film was originally scheduled to be released in January 2020 but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It eventually premiered in China in September 2020 and was later released in other international markets. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Vanguard managed to reach a wide audience and garner attention for its spectacular action sequences and global scale.

The visual effects and cinematography in Vanguard are particularly noteworthy. The film makes extensive use of CGI to enhance the action sequences and create stunning environments. The cinematography captures the beauty and diversity of the various locations, adding to the film’s overall appeal. The combination of practical effects and CGI creates a visually impressive experience that is sure to entertain action fans.

The stunts in Vanguard are another highlight. Jackie Chan and the rest of the cast perform numerous daring feats, including high-speed chases, acrobatic fight scenes, and dangerous explosions. The stunts are carefully choreographed and executed, adding to the film’s excitement and realism. The film’s commitment to practical stunts is a testament to Jackie Chan’s dedication to delivering authentic and thrilling action.

Reception and Reviews

Vanguard received mixed reviews from critics. While many praised the film's action sequences and Jackie Chan's performance, others criticized the plot and dialogue. On review aggregator websites like Rotten Tomatoes, the film has a mixed score, reflecting the divided opinions of critics.

Some critics lauded the film for its spectacular stunts and high-energy action. They noted that Vanguard delivers the kind of thrilling entertainment that action fans crave. Jackie Chan's performance was also praised, with many noting that he continues to bring his signature charm and martial arts skills to his roles.

However, other critics found the plot to be convoluted and difficult to follow. They argued that the film's focus on action came at the expense of character development and narrative coherence. The dialogue was also criticized for being clichéd and uninspired. Despite these criticisms, many viewers still found the film to be an enjoyable and entertaining experience.

Overall, Vanguard is a film that is best enjoyed for its action sequences and Jackie Chan's performance. While the plot may not be the film's strongest point, the sheer spectacle and excitement of the action make it a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre. If you're looking for a non-stop thrill ride with plenty of explosions and martial arts, Vanguard might just be the film for you.

Why You Should Watch Vanguard

So, why should you watch Vanguard? First and foremost, it’s a Jackie Chan movie! Need I say more? But seriously, Chan’s enduring charisma and incredible stunt work are on full display here. Even though he's not doing all the death-defying stunts he used to, his presence elevates the film. Secondly, the globe-trotting adventure is genuinely exciting. From the bustling streets of London to the vast African savanna, the film takes you on a visual journey. The action sequences are creative and over-the-top, providing plenty of adrenaline-pumping moments. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty of each location.

If you're a fan of action movies, Vanguard delivers the goods. The fight choreography is well-executed, blending martial arts with modern combat techniques. The use of vehicles and gadgets adds another layer of excitement to the action sequences. While the plot might not win any awards for originality, it serves as a decent framework for the action to unfold. And let's be honest, sometimes you just want to see some cool stunts and explosions without having to think too hard. The film provides exactly that, offering a fun and escapist experience.

Furthermore, Vanguard is a great choice if you're looking for a film that the whole family can enjoy. While there is plenty of action and violence, it's generally presented in a cartoonish and non-gory way. This makes it suitable for older kids and teenagers who are fans of the action genre. The film also has a positive message about teamwork and standing up for what's right, which can be a valuable takeaway for younger viewers. So, gather your family, grab some popcorn, and get ready for a wild ride with Vanguard.

Final Thoughts

Vanguard is a quintessential action movie that delivers exactly what it promises: a thrilling, action-packed adventure with Jackie Chan at the helm. While it may not be a cinematic masterpiece, its spectacular stunts, exotic locations, and charismatic cast make it an entertaining watch. If you're a fan of Jackie Chan or action movies in general, Vanguard is definitely worth checking out. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!

So, there you have it, my take on Vanguard. What did you guys think of the movie? Let me know in the comments below! I’m always up for discussing action flicks and hearing your opinions. Until next time, keep watching and stay awesome!