Once Upon a Time in China and America (1997) is the sixth and final installment in the legendary martial arts film series starring Jet Li as the iconic Chinese folk hero, Wong Fei-hung. Directed by Sammo Hung, this entry boldly transports the action from China to the American Wild West, blending classic kung fu with Western cowboy cinema in a unique cultural crossover.

The story follows Wong Fei-hung as he travels to the United States with his companions, 13th Aunt (Rosamund Kwan) and Leung Foon (Hung Yan-yan), to visit Chinese immigrants and open a clinic. Things quickly spiral when Wong loses his memory after an ambush by racist outlaws. Taken in by a Native American tribe, he regains his sense of justice just in time to help defend both the local Chinese and Native communities from violence and corruption.

Jet Li is, as always, charismatic and commanding, bringing depth and discipline to the character of Wong. His martial arts performance is fluid and elegant, even in the rugged, dusty backdrop of the American frontier. Sammo Hung’s direction emphasizes creative action choreography, delivering intense hand-to-hand combat sequences with signature flair.

The film tackles themes of cultural identity, racism, and unity, though not always subtly. Still, it offers a fascinating East-meets-West perspective and marks a heartfelt farewell to Jet Li’s portrayal of Wong Fei-hung—a role that defined a generation of martial arts cinema.

A blend of cultural adventure and heroic kung fu, Once Upon a Time in China and America is a fun, energetic sendoff that pays tribute to the legacy of a beloved character while offering something new.