Ip Man 4: How to Write Racism | Video Essay

Accented Cinema・2 minutes read

Ip Man 4 explores racism in San Francisco, showcasing the struggles of both the oppressed and the oppressors, with characters like the gunnery sergeant and Master Wan embodying different forms of prejudice and hatred. The film underscores the dangers of racism and the importance of unity, promoting acceptance and understanding in the face of discrimination.

Insights

  • Ip Man 4 explores racism in a nuanced manner, showcasing how it impacts both the oppressed and the oppressor, with characters like the gunnery sergeant and Master Wan displaying different facets of racial prejudice.
  • The film underscores the detrimental effects of hatred and racism, emphasizing the need to combat such ideologies through understanding and acceptance, urging viewers to reflect on the dangers of divisive mentalities like "us vs. them" and the importance of fostering inclusivity and harmony.

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Recent questions

  • What is the main theme of Ip Man 4?

    Racism

  • Who is the main antagonist in Ip Man 4?

    Gunnery sergeant

  • Where does Ip Man 4 take place?

    San Francisco

  • What is Master Wan's background in Ip Man 4?

    Tai Chi practitioner

  • How does the narrator's perspective change in Ip Man 4?

    Due to current events

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Summary

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Ip Man 4: Confronting Racism in San Francisco

  • Ip Man 4 follows the master's journey in San Francisco, aiming to enroll his son in a private school, encountering prejudice and confronting racist individuals.
  • The film mirrors Ip Man 2 closely, with a shift to San Francisco, Master Wan replacing Master Hung, and a marine gunnery sergeant as the antagonist.
  • Initially unimpressed by the film, the narrator's perspective changes due to current events, prompting a rewatch with a different mindset.
  • Ip Man 4 delves into racism more maturely than its predecessor, exploring how hatred affects both the oppressor and the oppressed.
  • The main villain, the gunnery sergeant, displays racism through his actions, contrasting with Twister from Ip Man 2, showcasing a nuanced approach to racism.
  • The gunnery sergeant's racism stems from an "us vs. them" mentality, leading to his disdain for Chinese Kung Fu and a belief in the superiority of Karate.
  • Master Wan, a Tai Chi practitioner, also exhibits racism, opposing teaching Kung Fu to white individuals and harboring hatred towards all white people.
  • The film emphasizes the dangers of succumbing to hate, highlighting the importance of combating racism and promoting understanding and acceptance.
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