Ta Lo––the hometown of Shang-chi's mother Ying Li––may be fictional, but its inspiration can be traced back to ancient Chinese culture.

In Taoism––a philosophy and spiritual practice of Chinese origin––"Ta Lo Tian" means "the highest and broadest heaven", and is the ultimate aim of those who practise Taoism. "Ta Lo" can also be translated to "eternally free and unfettered".

Most of the characters in Shang-Chi And The Legend of The Ten Rings wear modern clothing. In contrast, the villagers in Ta Lo dress in colourful, traditional Chinese garments. The juxtaposition between old and new highlights the historical, fairyland setting of Ta Lo.

In one of the final scenes of the film, traditional Chinese lotus flower lanterns make an appearance. Traditionally, these lanterns are lit and floated on water to offer condolences to deceased relatives and bring blessings to the living. The religious folk tradition of lighting floating lotus lanterns can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty.

Dragons have been part of Chinese culture for thousands of years, and so it will come as little surprise that the mythical creatures have a big role to play in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. The dragon totem is the national totem of the Han people, and the descendants of the Yan and Huang people are known as "the descendants of the dragon".

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Given and family names in Chinese culture are often full of symbolism and hidden meanings, and the names of the characters in the movie are no exception. When naming their children, Chinese parents favour names that embody characteristics of goodwill or are auspicious. Names are often chosen to honour ancestors or bring luck and prosperity. Shang-Chi sharing his real name with Katy is a moment in the film that would have stood out to many.

Traditionally, Chinese society has been patriarchal. In Shang-Chi, this is illustrated by Shang-Chi's sister, Xia Ling's, inability to practice martial arts with her male peers. Her evolution through the film, from practising in secret at night to carving out a niche among the men and then building her own fighting empire, is a metaphor for women's progress in modern-day society.

"You are a product of all who came before you".

Family is at the centre of the storyline of Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings. Shang-Chi's father, Wen Wu is a typical master of the house, strict and feared by his children. Ying Li is somewhat more flexible, compensating for Wen Wu's rigid ways. Despite their differences or challenges, the family unit stays strong, and generations depend on each other––a key feature of Chinese family relationships and values. Shang-Chi’s struggle to confront the past while carving out his own space in the world is a story many will relate to as they watch the film.