The One

The One is a chaotic mix of sci-fi action and martial arts that sometimes loses its way. With Jet Li at the helm, it promises a unique experience but struggles with its ambitious concept.

Multiverse Mayhem and Identity

At the center of The One is Gabe Law (Jet Li), a sheriff's deputy who finds himself battling alternate versions of himself from different universes. Each time one of these alternate selves is killed, the surviving one grows stronger, leading to a gripping yet convoluted premise. As Gabe fights to survive against Gabriel Yulaw, a rogue version intent on becoming the sole remaining ‘One,’ the film dives into themes of identity and consequence. However, with a runtime of just 87 minutes, it feels like the narrative rushes through key elements, leaving viewers with more questions than answers about the multiverse concept and its implications.

Jet Li Shines, Others Dim

Jet Li delivers a solid performance as both Gabe and the menacing Gabriel, showcasing his martial arts prowess and ability to convey a duality in character. Carla Gugino as T.K. Law provides a decent supporting role, yet her character often feels underdeveloped and lacks agency in the story. Jason Statham, as MVA Agent Evan Funsch, has a brief but memorable appearance, showing glimpses of the charisma that would define his later career. Unfortunately, many supporting characters, like Delroy Lindo's Harry Roedecker, are relegated to the sidelines and don't receive enough screen time to make an impact.

Action Over Substance

James Wong's direction in The One has its moments, especially the action sequences that are choreographed to showcase Jet Li's skills. However, the film suffers from uneven pacing; it races through its plot points, leaving little room for development or tension. The visual effects, especially for the early 2000s, have their charm but also show their age, which can occasionally distract from the story. Some fight scenes are engaging, but others are shot in a way that lacks clarity, missing the opportunity to fully immerse viewers in the martial arts action.

Rushed Action, Missed Depth

Watching The One is a surprisingly mixed experience. While the action sequences provide a rush, the film often feels disjointed, leading to moments of boredom during the slower narrative transitions. The emotional stakes seem a bit undercooked, as the film focuses heavily on action rather than the psychological implications of facing one's alternate selves. You might find yourself checking the time, wondering when the plot will start sparking the deeper questions it hints at, rather than just serving up fight after fight with minimal context.