There are two films in the Shanghai Noon movie franchise: Shanghai Noon (2000) and Shanghai Knights (2003). While fans have longed for a third installment, as of today, the series remains a duology, capturing the comedic Western-meets-Eastern action adventures of Chon Wang and Roy O’Bannon.
A Deep Dive into the Shanghai Noon Universe
The Shanghai Noon films, starring Jackie Chan and Owen Wilson, are beloved for their unique blend of martial arts action, Western tropes, and buddy-comedy dynamics. The success of these movies has led to ongoing speculation about a potential third film, but understanding the existing films and their impact is key to appreciating the franchise’s legacy.
Shanghai Noon: The Beginning
Released in 2000, Shanghai Noon introduced audiences to Chon Wang (Jackie Chan), an Imperial Guard from China who travels to the American West to rescue Princess Pei Pei. He encounters Roy O’Bannon (Owen Wilson), a charming, albeit opportunistic, outlaw. Their unlikely partnership forms the foundation of the series’ comedic appeal. The film cleverly combines action sequences showcasing Chan’s signature martial arts style with the Western genre’s characteristic landscapes and storylines. Shanghai Noon was a box office success, paving the way for a sequel.
Shanghai Knights: Across the Pond
In 2003, Shanghai Knights transported the duo to England. After Chon’s father is murdered and the Imperial Seal of China is stolen, Chon and Roy journey to London to seek revenge and retrieve the seal. The film introduces Chon’s sister, Lin (Fann Wong), a skilled martial artist herself, adding another layer to the action and camaraderie. Shanghai Knights embraced the same formula as its predecessor but with a British twist, incorporating historical figures like Queen Victoria and further exploring the cultural clash between East and West. While the film was also a commercial success, it didn’t quite reach the heights of Shanghai Noon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Shanghai Noon Franchise
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the Shanghai Noon franchise, covering everything from the possibility of a third film to details about the characters and production.
1. Will There Ever Be a Shanghai Dawn (Shanghai Noon 3)?
The possibility of a third Shanghai movie, often referred to as Shanghai Dawn, has been discussed for many years. Jackie Chan and Owen Wilson have both expressed interest in reprising their roles. However, numerous factors, including scheduling conflicts and script development challenges, have prevented the project from moving forward. While there have been ongoing rumors and speculation, as of late 2024, there are no confirmed plans for Shanghai Dawn to enter production. The project remains in development limbo.
2. What Is the Plot of the Rumored Shanghai Dawn?
Although no official plot details have been released, various rumors and speculated storylines for Shanghai Dawn have circulated online. These often involve the characters traveling to Egypt or another exotic location, facing new challenges and adversaries while continuing their comedic bickering and action-packed adventures. The unifying theme would likely involve protecting Chinese artifacts or preventing an international crisis.
3. Why Is Shanghai Dawn Taking So Long to Make?
The long delay in producing Shanghai Dawn can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, coordinating the schedules of Jackie Chan and Owen Wilson, both highly sought-after actors, is a significant challenge. Secondly, finding a script that both actors and the studio are satisfied with has proven difficult. The script needs to capture the same comedic magic and action-adventure spirit of the previous films while offering a fresh and compelling storyline. Finally, studio financing and distribution agreements also play a crucial role in the production timeline.
4. Who Are the Main Characters in Shanghai Noon and Shanghai Knights?
The main characters are:
- Chon Wang (Jackie Chan): A stoic and highly skilled Imperial Guard from China, known for his martial arts prowess and loyalty.
- Roy O’Bannon (Owen Wilson): A charismatic and opportunistic outlaw, who provides the comedic relief and often finds himself caught up in Chon’s adventures.
- Princess Pei Pei (Lucy Liu): The kidnapped princess whose rescue initiates the events of Shanghai Noon.
- Lin (Fann Wong): Chon’s sister, a skilled martial artist who joins him and Roy in Shanghai Knights.
5. Where Were the Shanghai Noon Movies Filmed?
Shanghai Noon was primarily filmed in Alberta, Canada, utilizing its vast landscapes to represent the American West. Shanghai Knights was filmed in various locations, including the Czech Republic (Prague and Kutná Hora), London, England, and Hong Kong. The shift in filming locations reflected the story’s move from the American West to Europe.
6. What Is the Historical Accuracy of the Shanghai Noon Movies?
The Shanghai Noon movies are not intended to be historically accurate. They are primarily action-comedy films that take creative liberties with historical events and figures for entertainment purposes. While they incorporate elements of Chinese and Western culture, they do so in a stylized and often exaggerated manner. Viewers should approach the films as fictional adventures rather than historical documentaries.
7. What Is the Connection Between the Shanghai Noon Movies and Sherlock Holmes?
In Shanghai Knights, Roy O’Bannon crosses paths with a young Arthur Conan Doyle, the future creator of Sherlock Holmes. This cameo is a humorous nod to the British setting of the film and adds a touch of historical intrigue. However, there is no direct connection between the Shanghai Noon franchise and the Sherlock Holmes stories beyond this brief encounter.
8. Are the Shanghai Noon Movies Suitable for Children?
The Shanghai Noon movies are generally considered to be suitable for teenagers and older children. They contain action violence, comedic situations, and some mild suggestive humor. Parental guidance is advised for younger viewers. The films’ PG-13 rating reflects the presence of these elements.
9. What Are the Similar Movies to the Shanghai Noon Franchise?
If you enjoy the Shanghai Noon movies, you might also like other buddy-cop action-comedies such as the Rush Hour series (also starring Jackie Chan), Showtime, Bad Boys, and Lethal Weapon. These films share similar themes of unlikely partnerships, action-packed sequences, and comedic banter. Movies like The Mask of Zorro or the Wild Wild West series offer a similar blend of action and Western settings.
10. What Are Some of the Best Quotes from the Shanghai Noon Movies?
The Shanghai Noon movies are filled with memorable quotes. Some popular examples include:
- Roy O’Bannon: “You saved my life. I owe you. And I pay my debts… eventually.”
- Chon Wang: “In China, if you save someone’s life, you must then take care of them.”
- Roy O’Bannon: “Never trust a man who puts ketchup on a steak.”
These quotes highlight the characters’ personalities and the comedic dynamic between them.
11. Who Directed the Shanghai Noon Movies?
Shanghai Noon was directed by Tom Dey. Shanghai Knights was directed by David Dobkin. Each director brought their own unique style to the franchise, contributing to the overall tone and visual presentation of the films.
12. Where Can I Watch the Shanghai Noon Movies Online?
The availability of the Shanghai Noon movies on streaming services varies depending on your region and the current licensing agreements. You can typically find them on platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and other video-on-demand services. Checking your local listings is always a good idea. You can also purchase or rent them from digital retailers like iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu.