Directed by Zhang Yimou
Starring Jet Li
I recently received my region 1 copy of this movie from across the pond and, with baited breath, placed it in my player.
First, let me set out my stall: apart from Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, I know virtually nothing about this genre of film. That which I have learned is directly attributable to people on this website (and for that I thank you). This is a virgin review from an eye untainted by prior knowledge,
So what do we have? The tale of a nameless warrior who must face the best of all assassins in order to achieve his goal of revenge for the massacre of his people.
The shadows of racing clouds over mountainous terrain – the army on horseback riding with banners blowing – the vibrancy of colour and its segmentation within the convolutions of the tale – the use of many flowing robes, winds and its very own special version of ‘bullet time’ techniques makes one thing very clear: the quality of cinematography is second to none. Almost a blend of poetry, philosophy, and moving canvas. Add to the mixture esoteric martial arts that become less of a battle and more of a ballet, a soundtrack both evocative and hypnotic, the story of love, honour, heroism, the struggle against overwhelming odds and you have a crucible aflame with adventure.
There are many levels to this movie and it is, in essence, an anti-war film. It shows how, sometimes, choices that go against our natural grain must be made for the greater good. It shows us that, ultimately, violence is not the answer. And yet, what a way to show it!
Sometimes you stumble across a movie that you know you will go back to time and again. This is one of those movies. I’m stunned. I'm converted and can't wait for the next movie in this genre. What more can I say?
Starring Jet Li
I recently received my region 1 copy of this movie from across the pond and, with baited breath, placed it in my player.
First, let me set out my stall: apart from Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, I know virtually nothing about this genre of film. That which I have learned is directly attributable to people on this website (and for that I thank you). This is a virgin review from an eye untainted by prior knowledge,
So what do we have? The tale of a nameless warrior who must face the best of all assassins in order to achieve his goal of revenge for the massacre of his people.
The shadows of racing clouds over mountainous terrain – the army on horseback riding with banners blowing – the vibrancy of colour and its segmentation within the convolutions of the tale – the use of many flowing robes, winds and its very own special version of ‘bullet time’ techniques makes one thing very clear: the quality of cinematography is second to none. Almost a blend of poetry, philosophy, and moving canvas. Add to the mixture esoteric martial arts that become less of a battle and more of a ballet, a soundtrack both evocative and hypnotic, the story of love, honour, heroism, the struggle against overwhelming odds and you have a crucible aflame with adventure.
There are many levels to this movie and it is, in essence, an anti-war film. It shows how, sometimes, choices that go against our natural grain must be made for the greater good. It shows us that, ultimately, violence is not the answer. And yet, what a way to show it!
Sometimes you stumble across a movie that you know you will go back to time and again. This is one of those movies. I’m stunned. I'm converted and can't wait for the next movie in this genre. What more can I say?