A Beautifully Made Martial Arts Epic

Rating: Null/10 (30 December 2000)

"Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" is a breathtaking masterpiece. On the surface the story concerns a special sword which must be returned, and also weaving in elements of a classic fairy tale: denied love, long-awaited revenge, potions and antidotes.
The fight scenes, the best in cinema history to date, are choreographed so amazingly your jaw drops at the first sight of action. Characters are so light and nimble they can fly, walk on water, and perch themselves on the treetops.
But what's even more impressive is what's not on the surface. Lavish sets, along with a beautiful score and splendid photography enhance the feeling of being in another place. The film's main love story, between characters Jen and Lo, is the real show-stopper. Not even the brilliant fight sequences compare to the true, hidden romance of this epic.
A surprising and tear-jerking ending, along with a great story and top-notch directing, makes this film truly something that sticks with you long after you've left the theater.