Simu Liu on being Marvel’s first Asian superhero in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, and how it can build a bridge between cultures

Previously best known for Canadian sitcom Kim’s Convenience, Liu was born in Harbin, China, before moving to Toronto, and understood his character’s ‘duality’

It was the film’s ‘little moments’ that speak to the Asian immigrant experience that resonated ‘very deeply’ with the Chinese-born Liu

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Simu Liu arrives at the premiere of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings at the El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles, the US. Photo: AP

Published: 6:45pm, 1 Sep 2021Updated: 12:10pm, 3 Sep 2021

When Simu Liu won the leading part in Marvel’s latest extravaganza, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, the significance was not lost on him. “It really is the biggest role I’ve ever had by a long shot,” he says.

Previously best known for the Canadian sitcom Kim’s Convenience, the Chinese-born Liu is all too aware that he’s been catapulted onto Hollywood’s A-list. More notably, he’s the first Asian to play a titular Marvel superhero. “It is the realisation of a childhood dream,” he adds, “and truly the opportunity of a lifetime.”

Inspired by Marvel’s 1973 comic series by Steve Englehart and Jim Starlin, Shang-Chi (played by Liu) spent his youth learning to kill, thanks to his ruthless father (Tony Leung Chiu-wai). But after fleeing his homeland, he’s now living in San Francisco under the name “Shaun”, working as a parking valet.

The story really kicks into gear when Shaun and his friend Katy (Awkwafina) are accosted by members of his father’s gang, the Ten Rings, who track down Shang-Chi to bring him back to his father. Only then does he reveal to Katy his remarkable fighting skills.

As action-packed as Shang-Chi is, it’s the “little moments” that speak to the Asian immigrant experience that really excited Liu – like Shaun taking his shoes off as he enters Katy’s apartment.