Incredible Action Combined With a So-So Story

Rating: Null/10 (22 July 2001)

I saw this film based on much of the hype is received. Had it not received all of the Oscar nominations and critical acclaim, I probably would have liked this movie better. However, I saw this movie after all hearing all of the acclaim, and I believe it is a wonderful film, however slightly overrated.
The camera work, the locations, and the choreography are all outstanding. While many folks will say the fighting scenes are "Matrix" rip-offs, I disagree. It's important for viewers to realize that in addition to being a romance and a martial arts film, it is also a FANTASY. So when some characters obviously received prior special training to allow them to fly, just accept it.
Where the movie fell flat was the storyline (yes there was one), and even Michelle Yeoh's outstanding acting job as Shu Lien could not carry it. The remaining characters were pretty shallow -- especially Jen (Ziyi Zhang), a self-absorbed brat. Chow Yun-Fat's character, Li Mu Bai, is rather cliche as a warrior shunning retirement for one more mission, to avenge his master's murder.
This film is not for everyone, clearly. You have to enjoy martial arts movies to like this one at all. Don't expect an emotional romance or a real moral to the story.
I'd give the movie an 8 out of 10.