Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings has audiences excited for a number of reasons: it is one of a handful of major releases to be released exclusively in theaters since the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic began, and it marks a huge turning point for the Marvel Cinematic Universe in terms of representation and cultural diversity. But theaters need more than that if they are going to overcome the hardships of the pandemic.
To further excite people about Shang-Chi, theaters in South Korea have offered moviegoers collectible tickets celebrating the MCU's newest superhero. The tickets have been stylized with the visual themes that decorate the film and, by extension, the Chinese culture that it aims to explore.
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings earned $8.8 million at the box office in its Thursday night previews. Unlike its MCU predecessors, the film will play exclusively in theaters for 45 days before being made available for streaming on Disney+ and PVOD. Disney CEO Bob Chapek previously said that Shang-Chi's performance at the box office will determine the release strategy for the upcoming ensemble film, Eternals, currently scheduled for Nov. 5.
Marvel Studios' latest entry in its ever-expanding cinematic universe follows the titular superhero as he confronts his past and his father's legacy as the immortal leader of the Ten Rings, named after the mysterious rings he used to conquer every corner of the known world in ancient times, according to Shang-Chi's mother. Though the film does feature a number of flashbacks, its central story takes place after the events of Avengers: Endgame, though it is uncertain when precisely it fits.
When asked about the film's place in the MCU's continuity, producer Jonathan Schwartz did not provide a definitive answer, teasing only that an official answer will be provided eventually. In terms of its relation to Endgame, Schwartz said, "We did talk about it... There actually is footage from other MCU movies in Shang-Chi -- Easter eggs, if you look very, very closely. But it came down to what was best for the story, what we need to know about the Ten Rings to enjoy this story, and making sure that that was presented in the right way to the audience."
As Schwartz promised, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings does feature a number of characters from across the MCU, including Wong, Abomination and more, particularly in the film's mid-credits scene, teasing a greater threat to come for Shang-Chi and his allies.
Source: Reddit