It's also fascinating to see the always nakedly political franchise turn its lens on American racism, and it adds a new spark that was oddly lacking from the more workmanlike Ip Man 3.

Ip Man 4: The Finale wraps up the parent series with a movie that's comparatively weak in the kung fu department but atypically solid at killing time between set pieces. The highs are lower than usual, the lows higher. It all goes down smooth.

Yen's Ip Man will be sorely missed if this is indeed his last match, but at least he walked into the sunset on an exuberant and heartfelt note.

... engaging and entertaining and Yen’s stillness and restraint amidst the action give Ip Man innate quiet dignity and humility.