East is East...

Rating: 10/10 (21 November 2002)

I've just watched this film and then popped along to IMDB for a quick read of the comments as I normally do and WOW.
I can't believe the sheer spectrum of opinion on this film. Whilst the two polar camps of lovers and haters are present as they are on many films, I can't believe the number of differing directions the hate is coming from. From the cheated actioneers, to the Asian weirdness lot, to the HK seen it all before and better, to the affronted at the over-reaction of Western critics.
OK, cards on the table. I'm not a big fan of HK cinema, although that may because of my under-exposure to it. I think this film is beautiful and touching. I think the plot is a little hackneyed. I think the whole of the film is paced wonderfully. I believe it doesn't matter how simple or complex or old or new a plot is, it's how you present it. I think that this film has many Western elements and many Eastern elements to it. I think the problem that a lot of people are having is reconciling this melange with their own experience of cinema and storytelling. I have no truck with people who want action and get disappointed when all the lovey stuff begins.
From a Western perspective, I'd like to lump this film in with Moulin Rouge. It's not to everyone's taste and it may affront those who are familiar with the setting and sensibilities of the era/genre in which it is set. It is a simple story wonderfully and beautifully told. The film has a heart (as well as wonderful cinematography, choreography and music) and that is what those who have place this film so highly in the top 250 are responding to.

There is a nasty undertone of cultural imperialism here that I don't think belongs. There are films where history is altered, liberties are taken with cherished cultures by outsiders, people and places and ideas are falsely associated with nations and tribes, and all of these are done in the name of entertainment and profit. This isn't one of them.
This film, I believe, was an attempt to marry two different cinemas. Whether this has been successful or not is for everyone to judge themselves. Personally I love it.