My daughter loves this program. She's only one, but has a genuine emotional reaction to it. We mostly watch the cantonese version, which she loves as much as the English one. The English version is also good for English language learners in small doses.
Reviews
13 Reviews
The Ledge
(2011)
An excellent film with more than a hint of atheism at its core.
27 July 2011
Recently, I posted a piece about Matthew Chapman, the great-grandson of Charles Darwin, who has recently made a film with more than a hint of Atheism at its core; The Ledge (http://tonyryan.org.uk/?p=530)
I finally managed to watch this, and must say that even if I wasn't an atheist I would definitely have enjoyed it. It's a tightly paced thriller, with excellent performances from all involved, especially Patrick Wilson and Charlie Hunnam. A small cast, and a low budget do not a cheap film make, and with these restrictions Chapman has done an excellent job of making a movie with a message that is neither preachy nor boring.
I won't spoil the film by discussing the plot, but from the synopsis and trailer it's pretty obvious what the film is about. What makes it entertaining, rather than just the story, is the interaction between the characters and the way in which you are engaged with them as an outsider looking in.
If you're based in the UK, this film is hard to come by, but these instructions from the producer can help get the film seen by a wider international audience:
"the film is available internationally now, but BY REQUEST, so here's how to get theatres to request it! I just put up some instructions at http://ledgemovie.com/how_?to_help/ , and thank you for any help you can give!
I finally managed to watch this, and must say that even if I wasn't an atheist I would definitely have enjoyed it. It's a tightly paced thriller, with excellent performances from all involved, especially Patrick Wilson and Charlie Hunnam. A small cast, and a low budget do not a cheap film make, and with these restrictions Chapman has done an excellent job of making a movie with a message that is neither preachy nor boring.
I won't spoil the film by discussing the plot, but from the synopsis and trailer it's pretty obvious what the film is about. What makes it entertaining, rather than just the story, is the interaction between the characters and the way in which you are engaged with them as an outsider looking in.
If you're based in the UK, this film is hard to come by, but these instructions from the producer can help get the film seen by a wider international audience:
"the film is available internationally now, but BY REQUEST, so here's how to get theatres to request it! I just put up some instructions at http://ledgemovie.com/how_?to_help/ , and thank you for any help you can give!
Captivity
(2007)
utter tripe
23 June 2007
I was going to write a review for this film, although I've read Cassandra Loyd's review, and it pretty much sums up my thoughts too. Please do not pay to see this utterly terrible film!
Overall, the acting was terribly hammy,and the plotting was jumpy & incoherent. Set design was the only decent element. I cannot believe that this was released in cinemas :(
In conclusion, as a horror/gore film fan I would recommend almost any other film i've ever seen. This was entertaining only in being sat there in utter disbelief!
Tosh!!
Overall, the acting was terribly hammy,and the plotting was jumpy & incoherent. Set design was the only decent element. I cannot believe that this was released in cinemas :(
In conclusion, as a horror/gore film fan I would recommend almost any other film i've ever seen. This was entertaining only in being sat there in utter disbelief!
Tosh!!
Unleashed
(2005)
Jet's best "modern day" actioner
5 August 2005
Ever since Danny the Dog was announced, I have followed its production with much interest. The inclusion of such accomplished and respected actors; Bob Hoskins and Morgan Freeman, coupled with the promise of brutal fight choreography by Yuen Woo-ping had enhanced my anticipation. This anticipation recently began to turn into apprehension, as firstly the name was changed for some territories into "Unleashed", presumably to make it more catchy and appealing to the American market. Secondly, the release of the film has been regularly delayed and is now available on region 3 DVD before it has even made it onto UK cinema screens. These are usually signs that the quality of the film is less than certain.
Thankfully, I need not have worried. I have no problem in saying that this is easily Jet's finest English language film. It is also possibly his best modern day role, outdoing the likes of Hong Kong counterparts; "My Father is a Hero" and "High Risk". I still feel that Jet's greatest moments have been in period pieces such as "Once Upon a Time in China" and "Fong Sai Yuk" and this is likely to remain the case. However, here it shows that he can not only still produce a fine, grounded, physical performance, but he can actually hold his own on a purely dramatic level.
As a story, Danny the Dog is more interesting than first imagined. I fully expected the plot line of Danny being a trained bodyguard, literally kept like a dog on a leash since childhood to be a transparent excuse to put fight scenes into a film. This is obviously partly true, but, whilst exploring the reasons for Danny's pseudo-imprisonment and his obvious trouble re-integrating socially, we get to see the emotional aspects of Jet's personality shine in a way so annoyingly restricted in his more recent films. Jet is an awesome physical performer, but there is so much more to his overall screen charisma that has helped make him an international star.
It is probably true to say that most people who intend to see Li's films are as interested in the action sequences as they are in the characters. In this area, I have to admit to being slightly disappointed. My expectations were clearly sky-high after hearing that Yuen Woo-ping would be working with Jet again after almost a decade. Woo-ping is responsible for arguably Li's finest hour with "Fist of Legend" so perhaps my expectations were a little unrealistic, however, the fights here are not up to the same standard. I have often felt that although Hong Kong choreographers can do great work on Western films, without the time afforded their Eastern counterparts, and the quality of the Chinese stunt performers they often pale in comparison. The same is true here, as although the choreography is neat, and the performers very able, nothing compares to the fearlessness, sublime fluidity and speed with which the Hong Kong stuntmen from the last 20 years are capable. Nevertheless, the action on show is brutal, bloody and often balletic.
Jet's next feature is likely to be a Chinese production with Jet playing the legendary Fok Yun Gap. Hopefully, he will return to Hong Kong permanently, as with Danny the Dog I believe he has reached as high a note as he is likely to with the restrictions placed upon him by Western studios. At least now he can return proud in the knowledge that he has easily been the most successful Hong Kong export with a much higher quality level of output than even the likes of Jackie Chan or Chow Yun Fat.
I heartily recommend Danny the Dog (or Unleashed depending on your location) to almost everyone even those who are not fans of martial art films or Jet Li in particular, as this is a production that could stand on its own as a purely dramatic exercise. It is not without its faults, as some may feel it is a touch melodramatic or even a little too short, however, it is still a touching film which manages to show everything Jet has to offer from his likable, shy persona to his impressive physical grace.
Thankfully, I need not have worried. I have no problem in saying that this is easily Jet's finest English language film. It is also possibly his best modern day role, outdoing the likes of Hong Kong counterparts; "My Father is a Hero" and "High Risk". I still feel that Jet's greatest moments have been in period pieces such as "Once Upon a Time in China" and "Fong Sai Yuk" and this is likely to remain the case. However, here it shows that he can not only still produce a fine, grounded, physical performance, but he can actually hold his own on a purely dramatic level.
As a story, Danny the Dog is more interesting than first imagined. I fully expected the plot line of Danny being a trained bodyguard, literally kept like a dog on a leash since childhood to be a transparent excuse to put fight scenes into a film. This is obviously partly true, but, whilst exploring the reasons for Danny's pseudo-imprisonment and his obvious trouble re-integrating socially, we get to see the emotional aspects of Jet's personality shine in a way so annoyingly restricted in his more recent films. Jet is an awesome physical performer, but there is so much more to his overall screen charisma that has helped make him an international star.
It is probably true to say that most people who intend to see Li's films are as interested in the action sequences as they are in the characters. In this area, I have to admit to being slightly disappointed. My expectations were clearly sky-high after hearing that Yuen Woo-ping would be working with Jet again after almost a decade. Woo-ping is responsible for arguably Li's finest hour with "Fist of Legend" so perhaps my expectations were a little unrealistic, however, the fights here are not up to the same standard. I have often felt that although Hong Kong choreographers can do great work on Western films, without the time afforded their Eastern counterparts, and the quality of the Chinese stunt performers they often pale in comparison. The same is true here, as although the choreography is neat, and the performers very able, nothing compares to the fearlessness, sublime fluidity and speed with which the Hong Kong stuntmen from the last 20 years are capable. Nevertheless, the action on show is brutal, bloody and often balletic.
Jet's next feature is likely to be a Chinese production with Jet playing the legendary Fok Yun Gap. Hopefully, he will return to Hong Kong permanently, as with Danny the Dog I believe he has reached as high a note as he is likely to with the restrictions placed upon him by Western studios. At least now he can return proud in the knowledge that he has easily been the most successful Hong Kong export with a much higher quality level of output than even the likes of Jackie Chan or Chow Yun Fat.
I heartily recommend Danny the Dog (or Unleashed depending on your location) to almost everyone even those who are not fans of martial art films or Jet Li in particular, as this is a production that could stand on its own as a purely dramatic exercise. It is not without its faults, as some may feel it is a touch melodramatic or even a little too short, however, it is still a touching film which manages to show everything Jet has to offer from his likable, shy persona to his impressive physical grace.
The Fighter
(1989)
Wasted Gwai lo's
27 May 2005
When I came across this movie in a small Birmingham newsagent for a mere £4.99 I thought it was my lucky day! Richard Norton and Benny the Jet Urquidez are arguably two of the best "Gwailo" villains to have ever graced the Jade screen, so to have the two go against each other seemed like the makings for quality entertainment - I was clearly wrong! The basic premise of the story sees Richard go into raw, back street brawling matches to earn extra cash in order to look after his ill sister. Ultimately, and after some terrible fight scenes, his sister is kidnapped and Richard is forced into a contest against the "World Undefeated Kickboxing Champion" (Benny) to save her. Why? I'm not too sure! As mentioned, the fight sequences that occur for the first hour of the film are not even close to the standard of any HK action film. There is little evident choreography, and it seems as though they really did pick brawlers off the street and got Richard to grapple with them. The finale against Benny is also a disappointment, as having seen both of them battle people like Jackie Chan and Sammo so impressively, they really should have put more effort in. Richard pulls a few nice kicks, but Benny looks a bit fat and even older than his far more impressive outing 7 years later in 'Enter the Eagles'. Richard himself has been a fight choreographer numerous times, especially for Cynthia Rothrock or Chuck Norris's 'Walker' TV series and they all show his talents far better than here. I can only assume it wasn't his choreography, but can't see the point of bringing someone else in, especially on the apparent shoestring budget! There is nothing to recommend this film to anyone accustomed to the HK styling of people like Sammo Hung or Yuen Woo Ping unless you must own every film featuring these two guys. If you want an added fix of Richard Norton go for something better like ALL his HK films or even his US efforts with Cynthia Rothrock. As for Benny: Well, keep re-running 'Wheels on Meals', 'Dragons Forever' or 'Enter the Eagles' to remind you he is actually a fantastic fighter!
No Retreat, No Surrender 2
(1987)
Pseudo-sequel, but good action
27 May 2005
This was originally intended to be a direct sequel to the first 'NR, NS' which launched the career of a certain Jean Claude Van Damme. However Van Damme pulled out feeling the film would not have furthered his career while persuading co-star Kurt McKinney to do the same. As a result, the story was changed with Tae Kwon Do expert Loren Avedon and Matthias Hues drafted in to play the American and Russian stereotypes.
The basic synopsis sees Avedon's character call in some friends in an attempt to rescue his Thai girlfriend, while strangely coming across a contingent of the Russian army (camped out in the Vietnamese jungle!) in the process, as well as a group of fake Shaolin monks. (Blame Keith W. Strandberg for the script!).
Surprisingly, for an American film, there are some well executed and imaginative fight sequences predominantly showcasing the excellent kicking skills of Avedon. This is clearly the influence of Yuen Kwai who was not prepared to concede too much to the American filming and time constraints. The finale, while inferior to the first films final reel, features Cynthia Rothrock as a hard-hitting, tough talking helicopter pilot (not a cop/CIA/FBI agent for a change!) showing some of the moves which made her name on the Jade screen. This movie is one of the only 80's flicks that uses her real voice! Loren Avedon did not follow Jean Claude's example and stayed on after this film fulfilling his 3 picture contract, notably with the decent third instalment of the NR, NS series: 'Blood Brothers' with the excellent Keith Vitali (Yuen Biao's opponent in 'Wheels on Meals') and I am surprised he was never used in a 'real' Hong Kong picture as he is clearly skilled and quick enough to have made a good screen villain.
The basic synopsis sees Avedon's character call in some friends in an attempt to rescue his Thai girlfriend, while strangely coming across a contingent of the Russian army (camped out in the Vietnamese jungle!) in the process, as well as a group of fake Shaolin monks. (Blame Keith W. Strandberg for the script!).
Surprisingly, for an American film, there are some well executed and imaginative fight sequences predominantly showcasing the excellent kicking skills of Avedon. This is clearly the influence of Yuen Kwai who was not prepared to concede too much to the American filming and time constraints. The finale, while inferior to the first films final reel, features Cynthia Rothrock as a hard-hitting, tough talking helicopter pilot (not a cop/CIA/FBI agent for a change!) showing some of the moves which made her name on the Jade screen. This movie is one of the only 80's flicks that uses her real voice! Loren Avedon did not follow Jean Claude's example and stayed on after this film fulfilling his 3 picture contract, notably with the decent third instalment of the NR, NS series: 'Blood Brothers' with the excellent Keith Vitali (Yuen Biao's opponent in 'Wheels on Meals') and I am surprised he was never used in a 'real' Hong Kong picture as he is clearly skilled and quick enough to have made a good screen villain.
Yes, Madam!
(1985)
Battling Babes at their best
27 May 2005
A revolutionary a film for kick starting and defining the Battling Babes genre, in the same way 'Zu' was for the fantasy swordplay movies, 'Yes, Madam!' combined the best of Hong Kong action cinema with a fresh, sexy and exciting look. Rarely ever had women played such dominant roles and kicked as much butt as they do here, while still being allowed to show a coy, feminine side.
Both Yeoh and Rothrock made their action debuts in this film, and they couldn't have been picked at a better time. The action choreography in HK was entering a new, fast and brutal phase while both girls were at the peak of their physical fitness. The end result is not only the definitive femme-fatale flick, but also one of the finest actioners to leap on to the screen in the mid 80's. The final fight scene alone is more than worth the cost of the DVD and puts Hollywood to shame with its raw power and inventiveness. The best offered in the West at the time was a macho Sigourney Weaver in 'Aliens', but even she wouldn't have been able to touch these girls! Also known as 'In the line of Duty 2' following the later produced 'Royal Warriors' aka 'In the line of Duty' (1986) 'Yes, Madam!' set a new trend in the later 80's whereby attractive women such as Cynthia Khan, Moon Lee, Yukari Oshima and many more were given free reign to dish out the pain, being made to look like the greatest screen fighters ever courtesy of rigorous training from the likes of Dick Wei, Yuen Kwai and Yuen Woo Ping. Even today we are reaping the rewards as female faces, new and old, do battle on the screen in modern classics like 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon'.
Entertaining cameos from Sammo Hung and Richard Ng as well as great fighting performances from the likes of Chung Fa and Dick Wei makes this a testosterone junkies dream! Ultimately lacking in great cinematography or even much of a plot, the name of the game is to excite the audience in as many ways possible, whether it's with lingering shots of a luscious, young Michelle Yeoh or an animated, head and arm cracking La Rothrock - this movie should not be missed by anyone interested in action - "Hong Kong style".
Both Yeoh and Rothrock made their action debuts in this film, and they couldn't have been picked at a better time. The action choreography in HK was entering a new, fast and brutal phase while both girls were at the peak of their physical fitness. The end result is not only the definitive femme-fatale flick, but also one of the finest actioners to leap on to the screen in the mid 80's. The final fight scene alone is more than worth the cost of the DVD and puts Hollywood to shame with its raw power and inventiveness. The best offered in the West at the time was a macho Sigourney Weaver in 'Aliens', but even she wouldn't have been able to touch these girls! Also known as 'In the line of Duty 2' following the later produced 'Royal Warriors' aka 'In the line of Duty' (1986) 'Yes, Madam!' set a new trend in the later 80's whereby attractive women such as Cynthia Khan, Moon Lee, Yukari Oshima and many more were given free reign to dish out the pain, being made to look like the greatest screen fighters ever courtesy of rigorous training from the likes of Dick Wei, Yuen Kwai and Yuen Woo Ping. Even today we are reaping the rewards as female faces, new and old, do battle on the screen in modern classics like 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon'.
Entertaining cameos from Sammo Hung and Richard Ng as well as great fighting performances from the likes of Chung Fa and Dick Wei makes this a testosterone junkies dream! Ultimately lacking in great cinematography or even much of a plot, the name of the game is to excite the audience in as many ways possible, whether it's with lingering shots of a luscious, young Michelle Yeoh or an animated, head and arm cracking La Rothrock - this movie should not be missed by anyone interested in action - "Hong Kong style".
Righting Wrongs
(1986)
Excellent 80's HK fight fest.
27 May 2005
Cynthia Rothrock turned down a part opposite Jackie Chan to play a larger role in this Yuen Biao action thriller. Biao plays a lawyer who takes the law into his own hands when the bad guys shoot a good friend of his outside the courthouse (hence the UK title 'Above The Law'). Rothrock plays an almost identical role to that of the earlier genre classic 'Yes, Madam'. Corey Yuen Kwai takes the action a step further than that in 'Yes, Madam', making Biao and Rothrock look better than ever in a number of impressive action sequences.
Biao's acrobatic talents are showcased magnificently as he flips, kicks, abseils and uses all available weapons (vases, axes and dead bodies!) in an attempt to punish the crimes of others.
This is the definitive Hong Kong action flick of the 80's, easily on a par with 'Police Story' and should take pride of place in any fan's collection.
Also, if possible, get the 'Universe' DVD as this contains both versions of the film and the original language.
Biao's acrobatic talents are showcased magnificently as he flips, kicks, abseils and uses all available weapons (vases, axes and dead bodies!) in an attempt to punish the crimes of others.
This is the definitive Hong Kong action flick of the 80's, easily on a par with 'Police Story' and should take pride of place in any fan's collection.
Also, if possible, get the 'Universe' DVD as this contains both versions of the film and the original language.
House of Fury
(2005)
Another popcorn Hong Kong actioner
20 May 2005
Warning: Spoilers
The fights aren't by JC as mentioned by another user - his company is just the producers.
*********{some minor spoilers below}**********
Anthony Wong stars here as widowed father Yue Siu-bo, an ex-secret agent who is now retired and alone, looking after his 2 children Nicky (Stephen Fung) and Natalie (Gillian Chung). His relationship with his children is noticeably strained as his constant stories about his illustrious former career come across more as the fanciful tales of a mid-life crisis, constantly causing them embarrassment. However, little do they know that their father's supposed penchant for Jackanory should actually turn out to be true, when an enemy from his past resurfaces and takes Siu-bo hostage. It is inevitably left up to the 2 teen idols to save the day, in what is essentially another popcorn blockbuster from the current crop of HK movie talent.
House of Fury is clearly a lightweight adventure, and makes no pretences at being a grand dramatic exercise. An hour and a half of over the top action, less than subtle comedy and a fair sprinkling of in-jokes and parody are what is on offer. Ultimately, it delivers on this promise.
First and foremost this is a modern day actioner, and as such, there are a number of fight scenes peppered throughout the running time. Most of these are solidly choreographed by (the now world-famous) Yuen Wo-ping, along with his less well-known associates Yuen Shun-yi and Ku Huen Chiu. The execution of their typically tight stylings is pretty good considering the cast are not stunt people of the 80's mould. Wirework is used to enhance spins and kicks, as well as some of the more OTT moves, but otherwise the fisticuffs are grounded and realistic. In terms of comparing the action to other contemporary films, it holds up well, and anyone familiar with the current trends will know what to expect. Overall the fights are good, and sometimes impressive, but not revolutionary.
The comedy in this feature is less broad than I expected it to be from an overt HK parody. There are moments when it is truly silly (such as seeing Wu Ma flying across the rooftops or Anthony Wong's impression of Bruce Lee complete with skeleton nunchaku) but otherwise the comedic element is restrained, taking a backseat to the fast moving, but simple plot.
Away from the action and comedy elements, almost all of the cast still perform well. "Almost" being the operative word here. As in 99% of his roles Michael Wong has yet again managed to confuse me. I am confused because I just do not understand why he is ever cast in any film. Here, he is typically stilted with his dialogue, and has no action to perform at all. He speaks English, even when being spoken to in Chinese, and no-one has a problem understanding him at all?! Anyone could have played his role in this film, and I fail to believe that anyone could do a worse job.
Aside from the usual Michael Wong grumbles, House of Fury does an excellent job of distracting you for 100 minutes. It doesn't rank up there with the best of any genre but for a lightweight action-comedy it is worth a watch. After his full directorial debut with "Enter the Phoenix", Stephen Fung has shown a lot of promise and I'm surprisingly looking forward to his next attempt behind the camera.
*********{some minor spoilers below}**********
Anthony Wong stars here as widowed father Yue Siu-bo, an ex-secret agent who is now retired and alone, looking after his 2 children Nicky (Stephen Fung) and Natalie (Gillian Chung). His relationship with his children is noticeably strained as his constant stories about his illustrious former career come across more as the fanciful tales of a mid-life crisis, constantly causing them embarrassment. However, little do they know that their father's supposed penchant for Jackanory should actually turn out to be true, when an enemy from his past resurfaces and takes Siu-bo hostage. It is inevitably left up to the 2 teen idols to save the day, in what is essentially another popcorn blockbuster from the current crop of HK movie talent.
House of Fury is clearly a lightweight adventure, and makes no pretences at being a grand dramatic exercise. An hour and a half of over the top action, less than subtle comedy and a fair sprinkling of in-jokes and parody are what is on offer. Ultimately, it delivers on this promise.
First and foremost this is a modern day actioner, and as such, there are a number of fight scenes peppered throughout the running time. Most of these are solidly choreographed by (the now world-famous) Yuen Wo-ping, along with his less well-known associates Yuen Shun-yi and Ku Huen Chiu. The execution of their typically tight stylings is pretty good considering the cast are not stunt people of the 80's mould. Wirework is used to enhance spins and kicks, as well as some of the more OTT moves, but otherwise the fisticuffs are grounded and realistic. In terms of comparing the action to other contemporary films, it holds up well, and anyone familiar with the current trends will know what to expect. Overall the fights are good, and sometimes impressive, but not revolutionary.
The comedy in this feature is less broad than I expected it to be from an overt HK parody. There are moments when it is truly silly (such as seeing Wu Ma flying across the rooftops or Anthony Wong's impression of Bruce Lee complete with skeleton nunchaku) but otherwise the comedic element is restrained, taking a backseat to the fast moving, but simple plot.
Away from the action and comedy elements, almost all of the cast still perform well. "Almost" being the operative word here. As in 99% of his roles Michael Wong has yet again managed to confuse me. I am confused because I just do not understand why he is ever cast in any film. Here, he is typically stilted with his dialogue, and has no action to perform at all. He speaks English, even when being spoken to in Chinese, and no-one has a problem understanding him at all?! Anyone could have played his role in this film, and I fail to believe that anyone could do a worse job.
Aside from the usual Michael Wong grumbles, House of Fury does an excellent job of distracting you for 100 minutes. It doesn't rank up there with the best of any genre but for a lightweight action-comedy it is worth a watch. After his full directorial debut with "Enter the Phoenix", Stephen Fung has shown a lot of promise and I'm surprisingly looking forward to his next attempt behind the camera.
House of Flying Daggers
(2004)
Following on from HERO with another visually arresting feature...
20 November 2004
After absolutely loving 'Hero', I couldn't wait for Zhang Yimou's latest Wuxia Pien feature to arrive on DVD. After watching it, I'm happy to say I wasn't disappointed, as it is another sumptuous, stylistic feature, which deserves all the accolades it is likely to receive.
The plot of the film is told in a more linear narrative when compared to that of 'Hero', but that is not to say it is any more straightforward. Set in the Tang Dynasty, the basic premise is nothing to write home about, featuring government officials on the trail of an underground rebel alliance 'The House of Flying Daggers'. However, there is enough characterisation and depth to hold your attention, while the (sometimes predictable) plot twists keep you guessing. Unfortunately, there is nothing entirely new about this story and it's probably familiar ground to fans of the wuxia genre. Nevertheless, it flows at a decent pace and is punctuated with enough stylistic action sequences that the 2-hour running time is quickly exhausted.
As with Yimou's impressive previous feature, Tony Ching Siu-tung takes over the action direction, producing another sterling performance. In my opinion, he is currently the top fight choreographer around after spending so many years being considered second fiddle to the likes of Yuen Wo-ping and Sammo Hung; he now deserves to be considered above them on his current output. In this instance, much of the overt stylisation evident in Hero is played down in favour of more grounded, natural martial artistry. There is still plenty of wire work and a spattering of CGI to aid the sequences, however, it is plain to see that much of the action displayed is a mix of genuine swordplay and actual technique. All the performers acquit themselves well considering none of them are formally trained in martial arts especially Zhang Ziyi who performs impressively from start to finish.
As you would expect from a Zhang Yimou film, the visuals are majestic, with primary colours and panoramic landscapes making up much of what we see. Unfortunately, many people do not seem to take to this artistic approach, and will label the film another case of style over substance. I would disagree, as I believe it contains plenty of both with a strong cast, interesting characters and high quality action to provide the foundation for the kind of bold, sumptuous visuals, which are rare to find in modern film.
Overall, I personally prefer 'Hero' but know of plenty who would disagree. As a result, I recommend it as a definite purchase to any fan of films from this genre.
The plot of the film is told in a more linear narrative when compared to that of 'Hero', but that is not to say it is any more straightforward. Set in the Tang Dynasty, the basic premise is nothing to write home about, featuring government officials on the trail of an underground rebel alliance 'The House of Flying Daggers'. However, there is enough characterisation and depth to hold your attention, while the (sometimes predictable) plot twists keep you guessing. Unfortunately, there is nothing entirely new about this story and it's probably familiar ground to fans of the wuxia genre. Nevertheless, it flows at a decent pace and is punctuated with enough stylistic action sequences that the 2-hour running time is quickly exhausted.
As with Yimou's impressive previous feature, Tony Ching Siu-tung takes over the action direction, producing another sterling performance. In my opinion, he is currently the top fight choreographer around after spending so many years being considered second fiddle to the likes of Yuen Wo-ping and Sammo Hung; he now deserves to be considered above them on his current output. In this instance, much of the overt stylisation evident in Hero is played down in favour of more grounded, natural martial artistry. There is still plenty of wire work and a spattering of CGI to aid the sequences, however, it is plain to see that much of the action displayed is a mix of genuine swordplay and actual technique. All the performers acquit themselves well considering none of them are formally trained in martial arts especially Zhang Ziyi who performs impressively from start to finish.
As you would expect from a Zhang Yimou film, the visuals are majestic, with primary colours and panoramic landscapes making up much of what we see. Unfortunately, many people do not seem to take to this artistic approach, and will label the film another case of style over substance. I would disagree, as I believe it contains plenty of both with a strong cast, interesting characters and high quality action to provide the foundation for the kind of bold, sumptuous visuals, which are rare to find in modern film.
Overall, I personally prefer 'Hero' but know of plenty who would disagree. As a result, I recommend it as a definite purchase to any fan of films from this genre.
Where's Willie?
(1978)
Is this the worst film ever?
9 October 2003
Well, I think so - and even voted for it on Film2003's poll as such. It's atrocious, and this is from my memories as a kid when I loved some real stinkers.
It looks like it was filmed on a camcorder (a very cheap one) and has no dialogue, acting, staging, direction, sets. In fact, if less money has ever been spent on a film (in proportion) then i'd like to know about it.
Avoid - unless it's purely for the novelty of being able to say you saw "The Worst Film Ever"tm
It looks like it was filmed on a camcorder (a very cheap one) and has no dialogue, acting, staging, direction, sets. In fact, if less money has ever been spent on a film (in proportion) then i'd like to know about it.
Avoid - unless it's purely for the novelty of being able to say you saw "The Worst Film Ever"tm
Wicked Game
(2002)
Mindless but Quality HK style action.
25 February 2002
As a 90 minute experience, it is not up to the standard of `Drive', as the actors clearly learnt their trade at the `Who Am I?' academy, while the action sequences are generally no better than those in the superb Mark Dacascos beat 'em-up. However, those who enjoyed `Drive', (and I thought it was wonderful!), will undoubtedly enjoy this too. You certainly won't rewind back to the start and watch it all again, but you will definitely flick back to some of the action scenes for a long time to come.
It is refreshing to see that the art of quality fight choreography is still being practiced, even if not in Hong Kong, and I would love to see what these guys could do with the budgets, time and respect afforded to the likes of Yuen Woo-ping and Corey Yuen Kuei. If you sit through the first half hour and aren't sent crazy by the atrocious dialogue then you are in for a treat. Bosch is magnificent, and can really bust a move with some magnificent acrobatics, kicks and simple acts of bravery.
If you are fortunate enough to be within 500 miles of a copy, then track it down and watch it. It's not Shakespeare. In fact, it's less articulate than Coolio in `China Strike Force', but you will be impressed with both the moves on display and the pain felt by the stunt team - (I'm pretty sure there's no safe way to land directly on your head, or be forced to head butt a wooden roof by a speeding car!?).
It is refreshing to see that the art of quality fight choreography is still being practiced, even if not in Hong Kong, and I would love to see what these guys could do with the budgets, time and respect afforded to the likes of Yuen Woo-ping and Corey Yuen Kuei. If you sit through the first half hour and aren't sent crazy by the atrocious dialogue then you are in for a treat. Bosch is magnificent, and can really bust a move with some magnificent acrobatics, kicks and simple acts of bravery.
If you are fortunate enough to be within 500 miles of a copy, then track it down and watch it. It's not Shakespeare. In fact, it's less articulate than Coolio in `China Strike Force', but you will be impressed with both the moves on display and the pain felt by the stunt team - (I'm pretty sure there's no safe way to land directly on your head, or be forced to head butt a wooden roof by a speeding car!?).
Looks Nice! But Dull
21 December 2001
I thought it was visually stunning, and Jackson did well. The first book is the weakest anyway, but I have never been so bored at the cinema! Dull is the best way to describe this film! It's like Jo Guest - Looks nice, but not much underneath - which is shocking considering the book is a masterpiece. Some things can't be put into 3 hours - and even if they are, why would it be so boring!
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