Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon Movie Review
Author’s Note: This Post is Spoiler Free
Starring: Chow Yun-Fat, Michelle Yeoh, Ziyi Zhang
Directed By: Ang Lee
Written by: Du Lu Wang (Book), Hui-Ling Wang (Screenplay)
Rating: PG-13
Released: 2000
Style: Action
For more information, check out the page on IMDB
The Heart of It
There’s a sword that everyone wants and a lot of people fight over it. When they’re not fighting, they’re usually hiding or confessing their love for someone.
Overview
Spoken entirely in Mandarin, this movie absolutely blew up the box office in the US when released in 2001. The 17 million dollar budget was quickly overshadowed by the 128 million dollars take in the US alone – with subtitles rather than English dubbing. it went on to be an absolute powerhouse of a movie, grossing 213 million worldwide. It is the only martial arts movie nominated for Best Picture and is often-cited as the most successful martial arts picture of all time.
Cinematography Review: 4/5
An early example of over-the-top computer graphics in a martial arts film, the film finds a way to use these scenes as an addition, rather than distraction. Everyone’s acting is on point and the on-screen chemistry, whether it’s romance, hated or a combination, is always believable. If I have a gripe it’s that some of the secondary story arcs feel a bit unnatural, even forced at times.
Martial Arts Review: 5/5
Pros
Despite the main characters having little to no martial arts training, with the obvious exception of Chow Yun-Fat, the choreography and creativity of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon’s fight scenes remain some of the best ever on film. From the treetop fight scenes to standing on extended swords, every movement lends itself to both the storytelling and the immersion of the film.
Cons
If you’re a fan of reality or practical martial arts combat, these fight scenes will likely make your skin crawl. There’s very little here you’re going to apply to your own training.
Overall Rating and Review: 9/10
Over the years I have shared this movie with friends – martial arts and non. Everyone has enjoyed it, though to varying degrees. When I consider the culmination of martial arts movies, this is it for me. I recall expecting to hate the subtitles, and while they don’t add anything to the movie, they detract less than I’d expected. Subsequent viewings have made this more so, as I find I need to read the lines less to be able to absorb what’s happening.
If you want more, the Wikipedia page has a ton of great information here. I also did an episode of whistlekick Martial Arts Radio on the film and did a ton of research. You can find that here.
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