An Epic Fantasy

Rating: 9/10 (14 May 2002)

I was unsure what to expect from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. I didn't see the film until everyone and their dogs had an opinion on its excellence or its failure. When I finally found the courage - or resolve - to see the film, I was surprisingly delighted.
What I noticed first about the film was the amazing panoramic images of China. The cinematography in this film is unmatched (with the sole exception of LOTR: The Fellowship of the Ring, set in New Zealand). The film itself was beautiful, and contained all the elements necessary for a truly successful fantasy. It had memorable characters, beautiful scenery, some comic relief, intelligent fight scenes, and most importantly, a moral. The fact that it revolves around a love story is an added treat (think: Star Wars).
This film delights the senses, and whisks you away into the lives of each character. The mandarin language adds a romantism to the film as well. For a movie that was so highly disputed, I find myself on the side that whole-heartedly approves of its brilliance.
If you have not yet watched the film, do it, regardless of any negativity that you may have heard. Just the experience of the film, whether you find you like it or not, is worth the time spent.
I rate it a compelling 9/10.