Movie #276 - House of Flying Daggers

House of Flying Daggers
2004 - Rated PG-13 - 1 hr 49 min
Director: Yimou Zhang
Starring: Takeshi Kaneshiro, Andy Lau, Ziyi Zhang, Dandan Song

Like Hero, this movie is really pretty to watch.  Fight scenes play out like a ballet, with robes flowing as the actors glide through the air.  The colors used to set the scenes in this film are superb.  The heart-breaking story of one woman's love triangle, which ultimately consumes her and results in her death, is a timeless tale relevant even today. 

I think I like the unconventional story-telling of Hero better, but Ziyi Zhang is equally enchanting in this role. And also driven by powerful emotions that tell her story for her.  But even if this isn't my favorite film style or my favorite movie, I can still appreciate it's artistry and the superb performances.

Movie #266 - Hero

Hero
2002 - Rated PG-13 - 1 hr 39 min
Director: Yimou Zhang
Starring: Jet Li, Tony Leung Chiu Waj, Maggie Cheung, Ziyi Zhang, Donnie Yen, Daoming Chen

No one fights in the air quite like the Chinese.  Bollywood has their dancing, Chinese film has their aerial fighting.  Good times.

In this movie, most of the action is in the past.  Jet Li's character claims to have defeated three assassins who've been out to get the emperor for years.  He says he got 'em, so he gets private audience with the man himself.  Is it all a true story or is it an elaborate scheme to get a new, unknown assassin within striking distance of the throne?

Once this issue is cleared up, there's more to talk about.  Flash backs to epic battle scenes and alternate versions of the events help to break up the present day lack of action.  The film is well balanced, the plot line enough of a ride to keep you well engaged, and the characters strong and compelling.  I really enjoyed this one a lot.