Ip Man 2 is a semi-biographical martial arts film based on the life of Ip Man, a grandmaster of Wing Chun martial arts who taught Bruce Lee. Many of the cast and crew of the original return, including star Donnie Yen who you may recognise from his mainstream turn in Blade 2, and also fight choreographer Sammo Hung, friend and frequent collaborator of Jackie Chan.

The story is set in the year 1949 and continues straight on from the original, following Ip as he escapes from the Japanese by moving to Hong Kong, which is under British colonial rule. Here, Ip Man attempts to open a Wing Chun school but is soon confronted by the local Hung Ga (Chinese Boxing) martial artists who are keen to test the new encroacher and his form of martial arts. This rivalry and competition tests Ip Man’s resolve and, as a consequence, helps build his reputation as a true Wing Chun Master throughout China.

Critics note the sequel’s focus on storyline and character over the action-oriented original. Nevertheless, comparisons have been made to the Once Upon a Time in China franchise starring Jet Li.

Interestingly, the film was originally to depict the relationship between Ip Man and his most famous and influential Wing Chun disciple, Bruce Lee. Negotiations with Lee’s descendants on the use of his character in the film unfortunately fell through, however this may be picked up in a third film.

So break out the wooden dummy, grab a pint of Tsingtao and get ye to IP MAN 2!