Nice visual but the story uses the same theme, again

Rating: 7/10 (2 July 2001)

I am Chinese. Being Chinese, I think I can understand the movie in ways that English speaking population can't. (No offense, I don't think I understand some films here the same way you do). That been said, I think the movie received higher praises than it deserves. There is no question that it is a good movie, visually, musically, and even the story.

But if you have true fan of chinese movies, especially the ones about the older generation and the way they think, like "Raise the Red Lantern", you will realize that this movie's true aim is to criticize the old way of thinking and how it robs people their freedom/happiness. (which in subjective) I think it an old theme and should be laid to rest long time ago.
I also have a big problem with the character Yu Jen, played by Ziyi Zhang, she is not the victim, like many would think and she is, by no means, the hero. She is a spoiled brat that walked all over everyone else's interests in achieving her own. Her choice in the end of the movie is not some heroic outcry against the society, it is fitting, however, for someone that is full of pride and selfishness.