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**** of ****
Rated: PG-13
Length: 120 minutes
Credits:
Writers:
Du Lu Wang (book)
Hui-Ling Wang (screenplay)
James Schamus (screenplay)
Kuo Jung Tsai (screenplay)
Director: Ang Lee
Cast:
Yun-Fat Chow: Li Mu Bai
Michelle Yeoh: Shu Lien
Zhang Ziyi: Jen Yu
Pei-pei Cheng: Jade Fox
Chen Chang: Lo
Sihung Lung: Sir Te
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of their respective owners.
A famed fighter in ancient China, Li Mu Bai, has a vision of the sorrow that has resulted from his past. He has abandoned his efforts to avenge the murder of his master by Jade Fox, and makes his sword a gift to his political protector Sir Te. The sword is presented by his female fighting partner, Shu Lien, but is immediately stolen. Jade Fox resurfaces as the investigation begins. Li Mu Bai is drawn back into the violence he sought to leave behind. The story develops as loyalty and betrayal occur with love and revenge.
This is a uniquely passionate telling of a story. The story is intriguing and in a way, interrupted by the long fight sequences. This multifaceted tale would hold its own with limited martial arts, but here they are extended in a way more akin to mythic legend. The fighting is fast and long, but rather bloodless, so it really is a film for everyone. The subtlety of the bonding between characters makes it more soulful. The beautiful sweeping scenery exerts a sense of serenity while the interesting story grabs your attention. There is an extended flashback scene to explain some history, but that was the best way to do it. The extravagant image on the screen is done justice by a strong soundtrack and score. The cello solos of Yo-Yo Ma were strong, and the drums beating in the fights could be more intense than the fights themselves. The character interactions had an oriental nature that was easy to understand, and the humor is universal.
This is why we see movies on the big screen.