Peter (fineanimal) I saw this film on VHS in the early 1990's, and it made a big impression on me in three ways: appreciation of cultural differences between East and West, appreciation of martial arts, and the lingering sadness that political stupidity could prevent two average people who loved each other from being together. Although I only saw the film once back then, I regarded it as one of the best films I'd ever seen because it made such a lasting impression. It even taught me to say "How are you?" and "Thank you" in Chinese, which remain the only Chinese language I know to this day! So I waited with patience of a martial arts master for it to become available on DVD. Finally, in 2005, I was rewarded with the DVD release, and it was every bit as good as I'd remembered.As others have mentioned, it is not a flashy Hollywood-type film. Almost the entire movie seems to be filmed through a thin fog that emphasizes this was filmed on location in China (and that's a good thing). Only a full-screen version seemed to be available, yet I don't feel like anything was lost. Even the spectacular martial arts training scenes fit well withing the frame. Watching those Chinese children perform with the skill of seasoned veterans is awe-inspiring, and humbling.This is one of my favorite movies of all time, and I couldn't be happier to own it on DVD. It's a shame there are no special features to tell more about how the film was made, what was real and what was fiction, etc. Even so, I can't recommend this film strongly enough. 10/10.

youneedsome This is a film about a young man who finds himself visiting China just after China was opened to the west. Mark Salzman plays himself in this autobiographical film about his cross-cultural adventure overseas. 'Teacher Mark' teaches English and wants to study kung-fu under Master Pan, a kung-fu legend even in America, who was immortalized in movies. Master Pan's reluctance to teach him kung-fu drives him even more and the friendship that develops between them provides substance for this movie. A love interest surfaces and together all of these elements don't really add up to a blockbuster but you will find is a story with a lot of heart. The acting is substandard but any kung-fu fan or film enthusiast will appreciate what the movie offers. Don't expect a slick production or big time special effects and you should have fun with this movie about the fulfillment of a dream and one young man's uncommon achievement.

Kevin Barrett Mark Salzman stars in the movie adaptation of his autobiographical tale of a young college graduate visiting China for the first time. Although packaged as fiction based on Salzman's true story, the honesty and modesty of the film's style give a documentary-like feel. Salzman's humble charisma prompts one to forgive and perhaps forget the lack of typical Hollywood gloss. The only professionals in major roles are Jeannette Lin Tsui as Teacher Hei, and the beautiful Vivian Wu as love-interest Ming. My sole disappointment with this film was its brevity.9/10

greenveg This movie was one of the best that I have see in a long time. Provides excellent insight into Chinese culture and life. The main character, Mark, provides exceptional acting and teaching Pan is most definetaly a role model to look up to. Chinese accents just make it more believable. Oscar-worthy material. If you have to see one film, see this one, it won't let you down!