Hero (2002)
The pinnacle of Chinese cinematography.
Presentation:
Christopher Doyle teams up with Zhang Yimou to create one of the most visually spectacular films of the decade. The scale, color and costume design are probably one of the most impressive presentations on par with Lawrence of Arabia and Blade Runner. Were it made in Hollywood, it could be considered one of the greatest films even in such a competitive decade, but the story is wholehearted Chinese to its core and western audiences will find themselves scratching their head unable to grasp the plot. Even for Chinese audiences this film will likely feel overly poetic, which is a recurring sin for many Chinese films. The color for each section is boldly varied, the reds in particular are so rich that they have stayed in my memory after all this time. The fight choreography is great and there is an entertaining balance between action and drama. However the grandness of the film creates a somewhat cold, detached mood that makes it difficult to emotionally connect with the characters.
Conclusion:
One of China’s proudest epics in cinema, you’ll likely be hypnotized by the sheer striking beauty. The images should stay in your mind, but you likely won’t be able to recall what transpired or the meaning of it all due to the elusive symbolism. This film is unapologetically a flex, focusing more on visual cinema than storytelling. It’s not that there isn’t a complex story, but it feels shallow from the absent character development, being rather mindless pawns whose sole purpose is to serve as metaphors and push the idea that China should be reunified at all costs. But even if the soul is lacking, you’ll still be blown away.
Recommendations
So slow, you’ll be begging this assassin to kill you…