Monkey King 3 -
The Monkey King 3 is an unconventional blockbuster. It works best as a romantic fantasy and a philosophical parable rather than a pure action film. For those willing to accept a Monkey King movie without constant fighting, it offers a rare, poignant look at what happens when the greatest hero of Journey to the West must face a demon that cannot be defeated by his golden staff: love.
While the previous installments of The Monkey King franchise focused on epic battles against demons and celestial armies, the third film, The Monkey King 3: Kingdom of Women (2018), takes a surprising turn. Directed by Cheang Pou-soi and starring Aaron Kwok as the Monkey King, this chapter abandons pure spectacle for a thoughtful, and at times comedic, exploration of love, desire, and sacrifice. monkey king 3
The film’s true antagonist isn't a monster, but the concept of attachment. The central question is: Is it a greater sin to reject true love or to abandon your sacred mission? The Queen represents everything Tang Sanzang must give up for enlightenment. In a powerful, tragic sequence, Tang Sanzang admits his feelings but chooses to continue his journey. As he leaves, the queen places a symbolic parasol over his head, and the film uses a beautiful metaphor—her kingdom is revealed to be a fleeting dream, an "illusion city" born from longing. The Monkey King 3 is an unconventional blockbuster
Fans expecting the relentless action of the first two films were initially divided. The Monkey King, played with swagger by Aaron Kwok, is frustrated and suspicious. He sees the kingdom’s lack of men and the queen’s affection as yet another trap or illusion designed to derail their pilgrimage. His primary role in the first half is comedic—he tries to drag Tang Sanzang away, only to be blocked by the queen’s guards. The real conflict emerges later when a rogue demon disguised as a Taoist priest arrives to destroy the kingdom, forcing the disciples back into battle mode. While the previous installments of The Monkey King
For the first time, Tang Sanzang, whose Buddhist vows forbid romantic attachment, is genuinely tempted. The film spends a significant portion of its runtime on the silent glances, hesitant conversations, and growing affection between the monk and the queen.
The Monkey King 3 was a box office success in China, grossing over $115 million. Critics praised Zhao Liying’s heartfelt performance as the Queen and the film’s bold attempt to humanize Tang Sanzang. However, some viewers found the slower pace and lack of large-scale battles disappointing compared to its predecessors.
The film adapts one of the most beloved and bittersweet episodes from the classic 16th-century Chinese novel Journey to the West . In this story, the monk Tang Sanzang (Feng Shaofeng) and his disciples—Sun Wukong (Monkey King), Pigsy, and Sandy—arrive in the all-female Kingdom of Women. Unlike the previous threats, there are no monsters to fight initially. The danger here is emotional: the Queen of Women (Zhao Liying) falls deeply in love with the handsome and gentle Tang Sanzang.
