CROUCHING TIGER, HIDDEN DRAGON
A Filmfreak 8/10
Directed by Ang Lee
Screenplay by Du Lu Wang (book), Hui-Ling Wang
Cast includes : Chow Yun-Fat, Michelle Yeoh, Ziyi Zhang
Basic plot outline: Li Mu Bai, a great warrior decides to turn in his sword, the Green Destiny to a treasured friend. When the sword is then stolen, it is up to him to retrieve it. At the same time he is trying to avenge his father's death by the evil Jade Fox. He is joined in his quest by Shu Lien, the un-conceded love of his life. During all of this, they are introduced to Jiao Long Yu (Jen), the mysterious and beautiful daughter of a well known family. She is the mysterious link to all these tales. But through all the many subplots, this is in essence, a love story.
Review: This gorgeous tale emits from a genre called 'Wuxia', which basically means that it is going to take a brain wrap for the common public to totally accept. Wuxia's basic premise is that the story takes place in medieval China, and is filled with fantasy, warriors, magic and mystery. Kind of like a huge Chinese Role Playing Game.
The most outstanding feature in the film is the cinematography. It contains the most gorgeous shots that I have seen since Titanic. The Wired Fighting Scenes are brilliant as well, not what most Westerners are used to. We got a good taste of it in the Matrix, a pungent aftertaste in Charlie's Angels, yet now it returns in full flavour to this wonderfully choreographed piece.
In essence, it is an encapsulating love story. It is not as linear as most commercial films these days, yet I feel that viewers will be too busy being swept away by the sheer beauty of the film, and the spectacular fight scenes, to get too caught up in "who did whats and whys". HIGHLY recommended. See the original (sub-titled) piece.
