The misguidings of expectations

Rating: 10/10 (12 June 2001)

I just finished watching Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon for the first time this evening. I read all of the reviews beforehand, and heard all of the praise of the movie. Like many people who are built up to expect the best, I was ready to be disappointed. I am happy to report that Crouching Tiger was inspiring and beautiful. The combat scenes were breathtaking, and the emotional friction between Li Mu Bai and Yu Shu Lien was palpable.

After reading through reviews of the movie, I find it sad that many people seem to derogate from the movie because they heard previously how wonderful it is and must disagree for the purpose of disagreeing. Many people complained about the simplicity of the plot and the dialogue. Have we advanced so far as a civilization that we cannot enjoy the simple beauty of love? Do sunsets have to come with closed captioning? Just feel the movie and you will experience one of the best movies of all time. Don't go into the movie feeling like you must find fault in it simply because other people have enjoyed the movie.
This was a movie that I will ponder long after the ending. Not because of the complexity of the plot, but because of the beauty of it's simplicity. I was left wanting more, and not wishing the movie to end, which is a huge compliment in the modern era of 3 hour plus marathon movies. Do yourself a favor and watch this movie with an open mind. Sometimes the most wonderful moments in life are the ones you can't describe in words.