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June 02, 2003
Movie Ying xiong
One of the things I enjoy about slow times is my ability to catch up on movies I've missed. I recently rented Ying xiong (translated: Hero), and have to say this is an amazing film. The story line revolves around a young man called Nameless (Jet Li) retelling how he has defeated the most potent assassins in the land. Add a little controversy, some themes of love, romance, honor, duty, and you get a story with characters you care about.
The part that impressed me the most, locations. Some of the most amazing scenery is caught on film, creating a world that is almost hard to describe. From the raining Go boards to the lake top battle, the visuals are extremely well done and kept in check. A few times the CG became intrusive, but not enough to detract from the film as a whole.
The sword fight scenes are rather well planned out, but do not dominate the film as a whole.
I do suggest going to rent it, but be wary this is an english subtitle only film. Finding the subtitles on the DVD can become rather painful as well since none of the menus have an english equivalent.
Buy: Very possible
Rent: Definitely
Posted by Dan at June 2, 2003 07:57 AM
Comments
Best. Movie. Ever.
Well, maybe not the best, but this is certainly my favorite movie of the year. I can't believe you didn't mention the color coding of the tails, as the perspective (and story) changes.
Posted by: George Schlossnagle at June 2, 2003 08:59 AM
I was wondering how many people noticed things like that, the fade to blood red, and the fall tree color coordination effects. All of these little camera effects just moved to create an astounding presentation of the story.
Other little things like camera angles we wonderful as well. The far distance shots for the fight sequences on the water, creating a ballet of emotion and control. While the close ups show the true chaos within each.
I've been told that there is a 20 min extended version as well. I'd like to know what has been cut from it, and which version I just saw.
I'm open for more movies along this line :)
Posted by: Dan at June 2, 2003 09:13 AM
The color is hard not to notice. The differing stories are all highly themed - even all the characters outfits are color-coded per episode.
It's a really cool movie (I went for the purchase).
Posted by: George Schlossnagle at June 2, 2003 10:05 AM