This movie is not for everyone. If you're a fan of Kung-Fu movies, with tons of action and light on plot, avoid this movie. If you don't like stylized Chinese movies, avoid this movie. If you don't really know that General Tsao isn't just a chicken dish (a delicious one at this) then avoid this movie.
For the rest of us, just sit back and watch a good movie.
Granted, the acting is very 1980's Hong Kong stylized acting. If you know a thing or two about Chinese theater (and, for that matter, Chinese Opera) you can easily get past this, since the history is that of traditional stylized movements.
The characters are pretty straightforward, in as far as you can get from the English subtitles, which are basic, and sometimes happen way too fast - which is why a pause button works wonders when trying to determine just who this guy is and why he's so happy.
There's the girl who dresses like a man, her male friend, the girl who wants to enter the man's world, and the girl who just likes money. And you can tell one thing from this all - they are all actually strong, intelligent characters. Strong, intelligent female characters.
The plot moves fast, and, if you pay attention, can really keep you on the edge of your seat. The funny moments are truly funny because they're supposed to be, and the sad moments are, indeed, sad.
So, pick it up sometime if you get the chance, and you are aware of all the caveats. It's really worth the time. It completely took me by surprise because I thought it was going to be more Chinese Opera, and less movie.
For the rest of us, just sit back and watch a good movie.
Granted, the acting is very 1980's Hong Kong stylized acting. If you know a thing or two about Chinese theater (and, for that matter, Chinese Opera) you can easily get past this, since the history is that of traditional stylized movements.
The characters are pretty straightforward, in as far as you can get from the English subtitles, which are basic, and sometimes happen way too fast - which is why a pause button works wonders when trying to determine just who this guy is and why he's so happy.
There's the girl who dresses like a man, her male friend, the girl who wants to enter the man's world, and the girl who just likes money. And you can tell one thing from this all - they are all actually strong, intelligent characters. Strong, intelligent female characters.
The plot moves fast, and, if you pay attention, can really keep you on the edge of your seat. The funny moments are truly funny because they're supposed to be, and the sad moments are, indeed, sad.
So, pick it up sometime if you get the chance, and you are aware of all the caveats. It's really worth the time. It completely took me by surprise because I thought it was going to be more Chinese Opera, and less movie.