A wonderfully complex and refreshing movie

Rating: 8/10 (5 February 2001)

In what can only be described as one of the most breath-taking and original movies in years, Wo hu zang long is sure to pleasantly surprise and intrigue any viewer.
Woefully typecast as a "kung-fu" movie, Wo hu zang long is a complex, deep, and thought provoking drama/love story, set against the beautiful and mystical lands of ancient China. The main characters, of which there are several, are all wonderfully portrayed. The complex motivations and interactions of the cast is a long overdue contribution to recent films, and any viewer will feel themselves hanging onto their seat as the plot twists and turns. Bitter enemies reconcile, and the certain future becomes very uncertain several times throughout the course of this film.
The cinematography of Wo hu zang long is amazing. Clearly, this film was crafted rather than made, as even the most banal conversations are shot from pleasing angles, views, and shadows. Action is heightened, characters are emphasized, and nothing is missed by the camera.
The action sequences of this film are nothing short of amazing. The marathon fight between Michelle Yeoh and Zhang Ziyi is one of the best showcases of martial talent ever captured on film. Yeoh in particular demonstrates an awe-inspiring level of skill in her art.
Wo hu zang long will leave no one dissapointed at the theater this year. Even the most crazed action fans will be pleasantly surprised by it's depth, as will the "please not another Kun-Fu movie" crowd. Do yourself a huge favour, and see this movie on the big screen, as it was meant to be seen.