Journey to the West – The Demons Strike Back (2017) (In Hindi)

Journey to the West: The Demons Strike Back is a 2017 Chinese adventure-comedy fantasy film that continues the story inspired by the classical 16th-century novel Journey to the West. This movie blends elements of comedy, fantasy, and thrilling adventure, delivering an entertaining experience that appeals to fans of mythological tales and whimsical storytelling.

Directed by Tsui Hark, a renowned filmmaker known for his inventive visual style and contributions to the Chinese film industry, Journey to the West: The Demons Strike Back serves as a sequel to Stephen Chow’s 2013 hit Journey to the West: Conquering the Demons. While Stephen Chow wrote and directed the first installment, the sequel was directed by Tsui Hark and co-written by Tsui Hark and Kenny Lin, ensuring a fresh yet faithful continuation of the fantastical journey.

The movie features several leading actors who bring life and charm to these iconic mythological characters. The main cast includes:

• Kris Wu as the Tang Monk (Xuanzang), the central character on a sacred pilgrimage to retrieve Buddhist scriptures from the West.
• Kenny Lin as the Monkey King (Sun Wukong), a mischievous and powerful immortal who serves as the protector of the Tang Monk.
• Lin Gengxin as the Pig Demon (Zhu Bajie), a comedic but fierce warrior with a distinct personality.
• Yao Chen plays the role of the Spider Demoness who poses challenges in their mystical quest.

Plot Summary:

The story picks up as Tang Monk and his disciples continue their journey westward, facing various supernatural threats and demons seeking to thwart their mission. This sequel preserves the lighthearted tone while incorporating impressive visual effects and action sequences. In particular, the narrative focuses on how the harmony among the group is tested as they confront new demons and internal conflicts.

The movie stands out for its intricate blending of humor and fantasy, alongside moments of genuine emotion and character development. One key theme explores the discipline and faith required to overcome both external obstacles and personal weaknesses throughout their journey. The interactions among the monk and his three disciples provide much of the comedic relief, while the demons add suspense and excitement.

Director and Writers:

Tsui Hark’s direction delivers a visually vibrant and dynamic film with energetic battle scenes and imaginative fantasy elements. Known for classics like A Chinese Ghost Story and The Blade, Tsui Hark brings his mastery of genre filmmaking to this sequel, maintaining a balance between spectacle and storytelling.

The screenplay, co-written by Tsui Hark and Kenny Lin, builds upon the foundation laid by the original movie. The writers weave traditional mythology with modern cinematic humor, making the story accessible and enjoyable for contemporary audiences.

Reception and Impact:

While Journey to the West: The Demons Strike Back did not surpass the enormous success of its predecessor, it was praised for its entertaining sequences, characters, and imaginative world-building. The film’s blend of adventure, fantasy, and comedy cemented its place as a worthy continuation of one of China’s most beloved literary adaptations.

Music and Soundtrack:

As a Chinese fantasy film, this movie's soundtrack features a mix of traditional and contemporary music styles that complement its adventurous spirit. The film’s background score contributes to the emotional and dramatic beats, though it is not a musical in the traditional Bollywood sense. The music supports the storytelling effectively without dominating the narrative.

Conclusion:

Journey to the West: The Demons Strike Back stands as an engaging fantasy adventure that brings one of China's greatest literary tales to life through modern cinema. With a talented cast led by Kris Wu and Kenny Lin, and under the imaginative direction of Tsui Hark, the film provides a blend of action, humor, and mythology. Fans of fantasy and Chinese folklore will find much to appreciate in this entertaining journey into the mystical west.

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