systemdwn's Full Review: Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
Rated PG-13
(martial arts violence and some sexuality)
Directed by Ang Lee
Chow Yun-Fat - Li Mu Bai
My Rating: B
I finally had the opportunity to see the most hyped movie of the year. After hearing the unanimous praises across the world with such descriptions as "a masterpiece" and "best picture of the year" in describing Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, I was preparing myself to see the movie that will forever change my opinion on this years disappointing cinema. After watching this movie, I would not use the word "masterpiece" in describing Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Yes, the movie was a magnificently constructed Chinese epic with some of the most amazing martial arts sequences that I have ever witnessed in movies. But, on the other hand, what was left between the breathtaking martial arts scenes is a very talky film with emotionally dry characters and dragged out dialogue. Even with all its praise, the movie still didn't reach its full potential, which would of made Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon truly deserve being called a masterpiece.
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is basically a coming of age movie involving a governess' daughter wanting to break through her social obligations and become a warrior. Set in ancient China, Li Mu Bai (Chow Yun-Fat) is a legendary martial artist who has decided to pass on his sword, the Green Destiny, to a trusted friend. He asks Yu Shu Lien (Michelle Yeoh) to deliver the sword for him. The sword is inevitably stolen and this leads to an extensive investigation and fights in trying to catch the thief and return the sword to its owner.
Among this tale, Ang Lee tries to intertwine two complex relationships, gorgeous fighting sequences, a misunderstood enemy, etc. all within 2 hours. That is the main problem with this movie and a reason why it didn't receive an A rating. Ang Lee wanted to cross too many genres with this movie. He wanted to show and tell to much. What was left is not a sweeping epic romantic movie, but an attempt to make a movie that will appeal to everyone: action, romance, etc. He superficially touched all genres. Ang Lee just failed to keep the movie more focus.
Now for the good stuff. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon blew me away with its martial arts scenes. Its gravity defying scenes will keep you in awe. For example, the film's first showpiece, an extended chase/fight across many Peking rooftops, is a jaw-dropper guaranteed to get every audience around the world to burst into awestruck applause. Even more unbelievable than this sequence is the fact that this is only the starting point. Other scenes include an extended fight in a restaurant, in trees (the best scene), etc. This movie will truly become a classic for all martial arts fans around the world.
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon will break the barrier in becoming an instant classic and an American hit for Oscar season. Does it deserve this kind of hype? Yes, but not as much as it is currently receiving. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is definitely a movie that everyone should go see just for its revolutionary direction in the martial arts genre. For Kung-Fu fans, this will be very refreshing and they would be willing to wait through dry moments in order to watch the fighting. For everyone else who wants a complex romance story, interesting dialogue, and especially the people who is expecting an action movie, skip this movie. This movie is not for everyone, but give it a chance and it may just convert you in appreciating martial arts epics.
Named Best Picture of the Year by over 100 critics nationwide!Two master warriors (Chow Yun Fat and Michelle Yeoh) are faced with their greatest chall...More at Buy.com Marketplaces
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