 Image via Wikipedia |
| Donnie Yen at the Shanghai Film Festival |
Feels like three hours (instead of only 1:46) because of the dubbing... but it's well worth it. When was the last time a martial arts film brought you to tears?
It is about the Japanese invasion of China and definitely culturally biased. But the choreography is outstanding! And the message still relevant.
Ironically, most of my training has been in the Japanese martial arts where we were also taught that it was to be used only for self defense, not oppression.
I borrowed this review from myr1545778 off Netflix (where it is available as an Instant Play). I hope he/she doesn't mind. They said it much better than I:
"A perfect blend of humor, tragedy, and asskicking, this is one of the most enjoyable films in the genre that I've ever seen. The story is great, the cast is excellent, and the cinematography is gorgeous."
"Sammo Hung has choreographed some of the best action in years, during every fight I was slack-jawed with amazement. The moves are amazing and shot with a wonderful camera style that enhances the action instead of obfuscating it with too many cuts or confusing angles."
"Donnie Yen makes delivering a beatdown look as effortless as swatting a fly. The story is beautiful and gave me a perspective I hadn't seen before into the Japanese occupation of China. It's not often that one gets the opportunity to use the word "masterpiece" when talking about a martial arts film, but this one has definitely earned the label.
