Review-
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
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"Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" stars Chow Yun Fat as a retiring warrior called Li Mu Bai who is giving up his prized sword toa master. He has come from a period of meditation, which he found disturbing, and wants to put his warrior days behind him. He is co-stared by Michelle Yeoh who plays Yu Shu Lien, an equally gifted warrior in martial arts, who once was in love with the brother of Li Mu Bai, but he was killed in battle. She now has feelings for Li but won't show them to him in respect for his brother. Li, aftergiving his priceless sword to a master and close friend, finds the sword is stolen by the beautiful Jen played by Zhang Ziyi. Li must get the sword back, and he is aided in his quest for what is right, by Yu Shu Lien. Zhang is a student of Jade Fox ,a rutheless martial artist who is known for her stealing of a secret martial arts manual, and the murder of Li's former Master.
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With these main characters, and also Zhang Ziyi's true love interest, unfolds a truly engrossing story which although is long travels at a lightening pace. The acting by all the leads is brilliant, and all the supporting cast are flawless.The story is complicated but is easy to follow, with Ang Lee showing the world what a great directer he is.The cinematography is brilliant especially in the beautiful natural surroundings where the film's characters often are. The plot is excellently constructed and all the characters are well develloped.The films music score has a variety of classic chinesemusic pieces, and are often emotionally stirring, and add to the films authentic atmosphere. The film settings are beautifully colourful and very realistic for the time period the film tries to replicate . |
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Just the things I have said so far are reasons to go and watch this film, but it is all topped off by amazingly choreographed fight scenes, which are furious and dazzlingly over the top. These fight scenes were directed by Yuen Wo Ping who is famous for his work on "The Matrix", but "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" is a far superior film in every aspect. I was highly impressed by And Lee's direction because he blended classic story telling with jaw dropping action to produce one very entertaing film. The use of "wires" was brilliant in this film, where warriors can fly from rooftop to rooftop.
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This is a great example of excellent world cinema which is hugely vibrant, fresh, and acclaimed by both critics and audiences. If you only see one foriegn movie this year, make sure you see "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon", because it is such an outstanding film which is guaranteed to satisfy. |
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