Never Say Never

Never Say Never is a well-directed and motivational film that follows a former fighter who won't give up on others when he was given up on. With light-hearted and at times annoyingly tear-jerking moments, the story reflects many darker aspects of society in an inspiring way. Specifically, it poignantly highlights how easy it is to misjudge, how easily the media can mislead the majority, and how well-intentioned people can ruin lives. This makes it one of the most meaningful and inspiring movies I've seen in a long time. Solid performance delivered by everyone, especially the kids, and Wang Baoqiang proves himself to be not just a great comedian, actor, and stuntman, but also a director with vision and depth.

I usually shy away from boxing or wrestling films but being on a plane with not many selections, I decided to give this film a go. 5 to 10 minutes into the film, I knew it was good directing and acting. Overall it's inspirational and motivating though at times a tear jerker. The pace is just right and the acting from the children is superb. The viewer may feel controversy in the sense of child abuse in training the children to fight when the children themselves have little choice in the matter in order to survive a rural poor life. The pain of survival and success or the struggle for a better life is certainly evidently portrayed. Overall a moving film and a recommended watch.

Ba jiao long thing (or Never Say Never in English) constitutes a solid directing debut for Wang Baoqiang, who has in recent movies shown that he is more than a comedic relieve. The acting of him and all the other - including child - actors was great, always convincing and moving.

The story itself was a moving tale that felt real and the plot unfolded naturally and never forced. The Sichuanese dialect gave it a grounded feeling.

As said above, the general direction was solid with some nice shots and camera movements and good editing, but nothing outstanding.

Definitely, a watch recommendation!