Verdict:Detective Dee: The Four Heavenly Kings is a confirmed FLOP based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.
With a rating of 6.3/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Action, Fantasy, Adventure, Mystery genre.
Answer: Yes, Detective Dee: The Four Heavenly Kings is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies.
It features a runtime of 132 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Last updated: January 11, 2026
Released in 2018, Detective Dee: The Four Heavenly Kings enters the Action genre with a narrative focused on Dee, the detective serving Chinese empress Wu Zetian, is called upon to investigate a series of strange events in Loyang, including the appearance of mysterious warriors wearing Chiyou ghost masks, foxes that speak human language and the pillar sculptures in the palace coming alive. Under the direction of Tsui Hark, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
The film is anchored by performances from Mark Chao. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
From a technical standpoint, Detective Dee: The Four Heavenly Kings offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. While the 4K mastering highlights the production value, the pacing during its 132-minute runtime can feel deliberate.
Beyond the narrative, Detective Dee: The Four Heavenly Kings resonates with current cultural themes in the Action space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
As of early 2026, Detective Dee: The Four Heavenly Kings is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. It is also featured on platforms like Hi-YAH and Amazon Prime Video with Ads. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Video roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
The plot of Detective Dee: The Four Heavenly Kings centers on a unique premise within the Action landscape. Dee, the detective serving Chinese empress Wu Zetian, is called upon to investigate a series of strange events in Loyang, including the appearance of mysterious warriors wearing Chiyou ghost masks, foxes that speak human language and the pillar sculptures in the palace coming alive. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 2018 cinema will find fairly predictable.
The ending of Detective Dee: The Four Heavenly Kings has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Detective Dee: The Four Heavenly Kings sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final verdict for Detective Dee: The Four Heavenly Kings (2018): with an audience rating of 6.3/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Action, Fantasy, Adventure, Mystery cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Worldwide Gross | $84,168,923 |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Amazon Prime Video
Hi-YAH
Amazon Prime Video with Ads
Hi-YAH Amazon Channel
Amazon Video
Apple TV
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Fandango At HomeAmazon VideoApple TVGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeAnalyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.3/10, and global collection metrics, Detective Dee: The Four Heavenly Kings stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2018 cinematic year.
Detective Dee: The Four Heavenly Kings has received mixed reviews with a 6.3/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Detective Dee: The Four Heavenly Kings is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Action, Fantasy, Adventure movies, but read reviews first.
Detective Dee: The Four Heavenly Kings is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. You can also check for it on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Hi-YAH, Amazon Prime Video with Ads, Hi-YAH Amazon Channel depending on your region.
Detective Dee: The Four Heavenly Kings has received mixed reviews with a 6.3/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Detective Dee: The Four Heavenly Kings is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Action, Fantasy, Adventure movies, but read reviews first.
Detective Dee: The Four Heavenly Kings is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. You can also check for it on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Hi-YAH, Amazon Prime Video with Ads, Hi-YAH Amazon Channel depending on your region.
Detective Dee: The Four Heavenly Kings is a Action, Fantasy, Adventure movie that follows: Dee, the detective serving Chinese empress Wu Zetian, is called upon to investigate a series of strange events in Loyang, including the appearance of mysterious warriors wearing Chiyou ghost masks, fo...
Detective Dee: The Four Heavenly Kings is classified as Action, Fantasy, Adventure. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
Detective Dee: The Four Heavenly Kings is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Explore the full watch order, ratings, and collection details.
View Full FranchiseDee, the detective serving Chinese empress Wu Zetian, is called upon to investigate a series of strange events in Loyang, including the appearance of mysterious warriors wearing Chiyou ghost masks, foxes that speak human language and the pillar sculptures in the palace coming alive.
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