Absolutely Beautiful

Rating: 10/10 (13 January 2001)

Upon arriving at the theater to see this film, I let down all my expectations so that I would go in with a clear mind. I don't think going in with high expectations would of phased the outcome of my feelings about this film. The year in film (2000) was almost a dull year for movies, and I don't remember being so lost in a film for a long while. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon was a beautiful movie in my perspective. It had all the major thematic elements a drama should (i.e. the different levels of power and wealth, the death of main character, the catalyst, the suicide element, etc. etc.). It's been a long time since that has been found in a film. And what a beautiful film to find it in. The coreography in this film was so amazing, I was blown away, and in awe throughout the entire film. There is so much to look at within it, and so much overwhelming story that I'm going to have to see it again.
After reviewing numerous other comments about the film, I see that many people watched the film not aware of the Asian culture and their way of telling stories. The Asian story telling has always been very fantasized and very romantic and historical. The wire work and 'flying' is true to the story telling of historical Asian works. This film was a fantasy, and therefore the 'flying' blended in well. 'The Matrix' has indeed influenced many films. Some films don't work out that well, and others do. The wire work in this film works perfectly with the line of story telling. The difference between The Matrix and Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon is the culture behind it. The Matrix was gritty and more 'realistic' in a way because it's American and has the American Influence and background; and it's our way of story telling. Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon's fluid and smooth coreography is a perfect utility to the Asian culture and way of story telling. As Humans we all need to learn how to appreciate all cultures. This film is a good start, because to many American's it may look stupid or inane, but where it derived from it's exactly what it's about. And in my vision it works as a beautiful dramatic piece, with every element slipping into place perfectly without flaw.