In a vast underground realm beneath modern-day China lies a hidden city frozen in ancient times. This sets the scene for The Last Warrior, a Chinese animated film that breathes fantastical life into the terracotta army. Directed by Leon Ding and Yongchang Lin, The Last Warrior interweaves mythology and history into an action-packed, if uneven, family adventure.
The Last Warrior follows the spunky Jade (Tinne Oltmans), a 21st century Chinese girl who finds herself transported to the subterranean city of the first Qin Emperor. There she meets Magnus (Andre Dongelmans), a stoic terracotta warrior charged with guarding the ancient capital. When reptilian monsters called Longxiao attack the city, Jade and Magnus must join forces to defeat the shapeshifting creatures.
Visually, The Last Warrior delivers, with sweeping CGI vistas of the underground realm and creatively designed terracotta soldiers. The animation from Fantawild Pictures brings the perilous journey across deserts, lush forests, and frozen lakes to life. Character designs could be stronger, but the textured visuals keep the eyes entertained.
The sinister Longxiao beast, voiced by Horace Cohen, makes for a menacing adversary. With the ability to morph into both beast and man, the Longxiao leader’s powers seem limitless, raising the stakes for our heroes. The action sequences as Jade and Magnus face off against swarms of dragonesque Longxiao are thrilling highlights.
Sadly, the storytelling doesn’t always match the animation and action. Supporting characters, like the bumbling university professor who discovers the underground world, are clichéd and flat. The plot careens through multiple locales without seamless transitions. Slapstick humor sometimes undercuts moments that should feel epic. The cultural elements feel only superficially Chinese, lacking resonance for that audience.
Pacing issues also bog down the middle section, with too much time spent in the frosty Ice City—the icy landscapes grow monotonous. Yet the breakneck third act almost suffers from moving too hastily, with character motivations getting muddled amidst the nonstop action.
But for all its narrative flaws, The Last Warrior still succeeds as a fun, escapist adventure, especially for younger viewers. There are endearing moments, like Magnus learning to lighten up through his friendship with the spirited Jade. The premise of living terracotta statues and ancient worlds lurking beneath our feet offers creative “what if” scenarios that fantasy fans should enjoy.
The Last Warrior ultimately delivers entertaining, if not groundbreaking, animated diversion. With a reported budget of $30 million, this Chinese co-production has visual polish but lacks narrative finesse. Yet imaginative world-building and thrilling adventures scenes offer enjoyable escapism for families. It’s no Oscar-winner, but The Last Warrior makes for a pleasant enough animated romp.