This movie has two of my absolute favorites: quietly intense and sexy Pierce Brosnan and beautiful, exciting Hong Kong. It is set during a time in Hong Kong's history that is nervous with China breathing down its neck ready to absorb the wealth, class and beauty of the colony. Noble House is in between the ritualistic past and growing wealthy present. Brosnan, one of my preferred James Bonds, is featured driving, wining and dining American business execs who barely comprehend what Hong Kong is about. The problem I find in this film, based on a novel, is I suspect the same problem in the novel: the author throws in predictable plot beats, lots of action visual tricks--fire, flood, sex, the usual--so that overall it is cheap plot. Easily predictable and almost stale. But then there is Hong Kong and Pierce Brosnan's handful masterful presence. Worth the trip. The difference between the main women characters hits you in the face - one American the other Eur-Asian. That feels honest though a bit dated. The acting is fine and to be congratulated.
Review of Noble House
