Why The One (2001) is Jet Li’s Most Philosophically Charged Sci-Fi Thriller
If you’re fascinated by parallel universes, moral ambiguity, and Jet Li’s unparalleled ability to play both hero and villain, The One (also known as 救世主 or 宇宙追缉令) is a genre-defying gem that deserves a fresh appraisal. Here’s why this sci-fi action film transcends its early-2000s CGI and offers a gripping exploration of identity and power:
- A Multiverse Concept Ahead of Its Time
Long before Marvel’s Spider-Man: No Way Home popularized multiverse storytelling, The One dived headfirst into the chaos of parallel realities. Jet Li stars as Gabriel Yulaw, a rogue agent hunting down his alternate selves across 124 universes to absorb their energy and become a god-like “The One.” The film’s premise—rooted in quantum theory and existential dread—challenges audiences to ponder: What if your greatest enemy were yourself? While critics initially dismissed the plot as convoluted, its themes of unchecked ambition and fractured identity feel eerily relevant in today’s era of AI and existential tech anxiety.
- Jet Li’s Dual Mastery: Hero vs. Antihero
Forget the noble warriors of Hero or Fearless—here, Jet Li delivers a career-defining duality. As Gabriel, he’s a chillingly charismatic villain, relishing his quest for omnipotence with a smirk. In contrast, his portrayal of Gabe Law, a humble Los Angeles cop and the last surviving “good” version, balances vulnerability with quiet resilience. The climactic showdown between the two Lis is less about martial arts prowess (though the fights are brutal) and more about ideological warfare: Does power corrupt absolutely, or can humanity prevail?.
- Jason Statham’s Underrated Supporting Role
Long before The Expendables, Jason Statham shared the screen with Jet Li as Evan Funsch, a Multiverse Authority (MAV) agent tasked with stopping Gabriel. Statham’s dry wit and gruff determination provide a grounded counterpoint to the film’s high-concept chaos. His dynamic with Li—marked by mutual respect and tactical clashes—adds emotional weight to the spectacle.
- Action as a Metaphor for Existential Struggle
Director James Wong (Final Destination) uses hyper-stylized action to mirror the characters’ inner turmoil. The fight scenes—choreographed by Corey Yuen—are kinetic and unflinching, from a prison riot where Gabriel decimates SWAT teams to a highway chase involving a gravity-defying motorcycle. Yet, the most haunting moment is a quiet one: Gabe’s realization that his wife’s love exists uniquely in his universe, a fragile anchor in an infinite sea of realities.
- A Flawed but Prescient Legacy
-The One* stumbled at release due to its uneven pacing and dated CGI, but its philosophical core has aged beautifully. The film asks: In a multiverse where every choice spawns new realities, what makes us “good” or “evil”? Gabriel’s downfall isn’t just physical—it’s the tragedy of a man who loses his humanity in pursuit of godhood. Meanwhile, Gabe’s victory lies not in strength but in embracing his flawed, singular self.
Final Verdict
-The One* is more than a popcorn flick—it’s a provocative meditation on power and selfhood wrapped in sci-fi adrenaline. For Jet Li fans, it showcases his range beyond wuxia; for sci-fi enthusiasts, it’s a hidden precursor to modern multiverse narratives. As Gabriel taunts, “I’m nobody’s bitch!”—a line that encapsulates the film’s rebellious spirit. Stream it for the mind-bending thrills; stay for the existential aftershocks.
-“Infinite worlds, infinite choices—but only one you.”
-(Note: This review synthesizes themes from parallel universe theory and critiques of Jet Li’s Hollywood evolution , offering original analysis tailored for global audiences.)