‘The Tiger’s Apprentice’ (2024) Review: Entertaining Adventure with Mystical Creatures
Raman Hui’s The Tiger’s Apprentice follows a young boy who discovers he is part of a society that protects magical beings. It is an inspiring story that explores Tom Lee (Brandon Soo Hoo) finding confidence in himself and rescuing magical beings from peril. The animated feature is based on Laurence Yep’s fantasy novel and features an incredible ensemble doing voice work for various characters.
The film begins 15 years early in Hong Kong. Tom’s grandmother, Mrs Lee (Kheng Hua Tan), is fleeing from otherworldly beasts in a car. As the creatures surround Mrs Lee’s car, they are rescued by mythical animals. Years later, a teenage Tom is being bullied by his schoolmates. When he tries to defend himself, he discovers that he possesses strange powers.
When he arrives home, decorated in good luck charms and amulets resembling a temple, he is greeted by Hu (Henry Golding), who senses danger coming their way. Mrs. Lee reveals to Tom that she is part of a long line of Guardians of the Phoenix who protect the purple stone from the evil Loo (Michelle Yeoh). The shapeshifting spirit appears at their home to steal the stone and destroy the world. Mrs. Lee gives the stone to Tom and tells him to protect it from getting into the wrong hands. But before Tom can do anything, Loo murders his grandmother and Hu, who shapeshifts into a tiger, rescues him before Loo catches him.
What unfolds following the rescue in The Tiger’s Apprentice is an adventurous tale of friendship, with incredible fight sequences and voice work by the cast. Sandra Oh, Lucy Liu, Greta Lee, Bowen Yang, Patrick Gallagher, Sherry Cola, Diana Lee Inosanto, and many others play the animals from the Chinese zodiac.
The Tiger’s Apprentice teaches a good lesson for younger viewers. In the beginning, Tom is not very sure of himself. He wants to take a stand for himself, but he is not confident enough. When he is under Hu’s apprenticeship, he unlearns his insecurities.
With its magical elements and mythical creatures, The Tiger’s Apprentice is better suited as a television series. The story would have worked if the characters were properly fleshed out and focused on each subplot in different episodes. Regardless of these issues, the animated movie is a thrilling, adventurous tale with mystical elements that will keep younger viewers entertained.
Here are some reading materials to learn about the genocide and ethnic cleansing in Palestine and the BDS (Boycott, Divest, Sanction) movement:
Books about Palestine on Verso Books
Books about Palestine on Haymarket Books
