Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is pure magic.

Rating: 10/10 (30 August 2001)

Crouching Tiger enters you as you enter it. The film is full of magical visions and marvelous vistas. It is a dream and yet it is also quite real.
There are certain precepts that must be accepted to truly enjoy this film. First of all you must accept the idea that the people in this film can fly. One of the great things about Crouching Tiger is that this idea of people flying is presented so naturally, that you find yourself thinking, "Well of course people can fly!" The next thing you should bring to Crouching Tiger is some knowledge of the ancient philosophy of China.
Those who know nothing about Chinese thought can still enjoy Crouching Tiger, but the more knowledge you DO bring, the deeper you can submerge yourself in this glorious tale of love, honor,and sacrifice. Of youthful arrogance and impatience versus the serenity of the older, more settled scholars.
The cinematography is brilliant. The acting is splendid. The costumes and sets magnificent. The martial arts sequences masterful and thrilling. The humor and warmth of this film is infectious. The characters are people to cherish forever.
Crouching Tiger is a feast for the eye as well as the mind. I come away from Crouching Tiger seeing something new and always feeling refreshed and enlightened.