Donnie Yen Martial Arts Fantasy ‘Sakra’ Set for North American Launch
Primarily based on the wuxia novel ‘Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils,’ the movie will get a theatrical run this spring
Donnie Yen followers, rejoice: The illustrious martial arts grasp’s newest movie, Sakra, has been acquired by WellGo USA for North American distribution, Selection experiences. Primarily based Jin Yong‘s 1963 wuxia novel Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils, Sakra follows Qiao Feng (Yen), a martial artist who seeks to clear his title after being falsely accused of homicide. Within the course of, he learns about “his personal mysterious origin story and the unknown enemies working to destroy him,” in response to an official plot synopsis.
Though Western audiences could also be unfamiliar with the e-book, it is fairly well-known in Yen’s native China, the place it has been beforehand tailored right into a myriad of flicks, tv reveals, and even video video games. Up till now, essentially the most notable iteration has arguably been The Shaw Brothers‘ 1977 model, The Battle Wizard, starring Danny Lee.
Yen not solely stars in Sakra however served because the movie’s producer, motion choreographer, and director as nicely. It is Yen’s first directing credit score since 2004’s Protégé de la Rose Noire. Sakra will obtain a North American theatrical launch in April, though a particular date has not but been revealed. It would seem on all digital platforms shortly thereafter. The film has already seen a gradual rollout in a number of Asian territories over the previous few months, and, in response to Field Workplace Mojo, has so far grossed $570,759 on the time of writing.
Talking in regards to the movie with THR final yr, Yen advised that Sakra may very well be China’s reply to an entry within the Marvel Cinematic Universe:
“[W]hat I wish to do is use my expertise and dedicate myself to proceed making movies with Chinese language parts, Chinese language historical past and Chinese language actors — to do my half to assist elevate the entire Chinese language movie world. As a result of once I have a look at Marvel’s business success, I really feel there’s a lot I might do with my very own tradition that’s equally pretty much as good, if not higher. You understand, Wuxia is Chinese language Marvel, besides it has much more wealthy historical past and tradition behind it. I imply, it goes again 1000’s of years. So, anyway, that’s my single purpose.”
Maybe finest recognized to modern Western audiences for his appearances in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, the live-action Mulan, and xXx: The Return of Xander Cage, Yen will subsequent be seen combating Keanu Reeves and Hiroyuki Sanada (Bullet Practice, Mortal Kombat) in John Wick: Chapter 4.
You possibly can watch the worldwide trailer for Sakra beneath. Count on extra particulars on its North American launch quickly.