Ip Man - Characters & Cast

To protect his family and uphold the dignity of Chinese martial arts against foreign oppressors.

Starts as a wealthy, somewhat detached patrician who treats martial arts as a refined hobby. The war forces him to descend into the mud of reality, where he must weaponize his art not for sport, but for the survival of his people and his own soul.

To prove the supremacy of Japanese martial spirit and conquer the Chinese will through combat.

A Japanese general obsessed with the purity of martial arts. He seeks to prove the superiority of Japanese Karate over Chinese Kung Fu but finds himself intellectually and physically challenged by Ip Man's skill.

To establish his own school and gain fame by dominating others.

Arrives as a rude, arrogant bully seeking fame by beating local masters. After being humbled by Ip Man, he later returns (in this or subsequent films) with a newfound respect, having learned that brute force is not true power.

To keep her family safe and together.

Initially resentful of her husband's fighting, seeing it as neglect of the family. The war shifts her perspective as she witnesses his strength becoming their only protection, leading to a silent, deep support.