The first film in the series, directed by Wilson Yip, introduces audiences to Ip Man, a young martial arts master who moves to Hong Kong from Foshan, China. As he navigates his new life, Ip Man faces various challenges, including rival martial artists and the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong during World War II. The film's success can be attributed to the chemistry between Donnie Yen and Sammo Hung, who plays the role of Ng Sek Tong, a fellow martial artist and friend of Ip Man.