I was very negative about going to yet another Chinese big production kungfu action movie set in ancient China, but this film turns out to be a surprise! I went my classmates, all of them male, and they ended up not liking it because there were too much talking and not enough action.
I, on the other hand, thought that the drama was well-written and well-acted. Some parts were exaggerated (ie. the fight scenes, and the announcement of time of day every 10 mins..) But overall I enjoyed the interactions between characters in the film. It was also interesting for me to see how the characters end up doing what they do, and seeing the story finishes in the way that it does.
It IS a depressing film, though. Plus, if you're looking for lots of action, you'll be disappointed. The fight scenes only happens at the later half of the movie.
But if you're up for good drama, then go watch. Other than Jay Chow's so-so performance, I thought all the acting were very well done.
It's definitely much better than Hero and Flying Daggers (in terms of story and structure). I haven't seen the Banquet so I can't comment on that.
I, on the other hand, thought that the drama was well-written and well-acted. Some parts were exaggerated (ie. the fight scenes, and the announcement of time of day every 10 mins..) But overall I enjoyed the interactions between characters in the film. It was also interesting for me to see how the characters end up doing what they do, and seeing the story finishes in the way that it does.
It IS a depressing film, though. Plus, if you're looking for lots of action, you'll be disappointed. The fight scenes only happens at the later half of the movie.
But if you're up for good drama, then go watch. Other than Jay Chow's so-so performance, I thought all the acting were very well done.
It's definitely much better than Hero and Flying Daggers (in terms of story and structure). I haven't seen the Banquet so I can't comment on that.