a heroic masterpiece

Rating: 10/10 (12 February 2003)

This visual exposition on what defines a hero is gives a magnificent feast to my eyes. Please, don't expect a story out of 'Hero', but a spirit and meaning. The soul of a 'Hero' is sacrificing your heart, your love, your dreams, and your revenge.
Yet, 'Hero' is still enjoyable as a kungfu flick. From all the cast, Jet Li and Donnie Yen are the real martial dancers, so director Zhang Yimou entrust the first duel scene to them. Under the choreography of veteran actor and kungfu visionary Tony Ching, the first duel - rendered in black with brown accent in Yen's costum - is fast, furious and fabulous.
Other masterpiece scene includes the blue lake that stays calm after every movement of two assasins: Jet Li and Tony Leung. With a natural lighting, the serene lake reflects the beauty of love between Leung and his lover Maggie Cheung.
Compared to his fellow choreographer Yuen Wo Ping, Tony Ching uses another approach to kungfu. His movements are more imaginative and wild. Enjoy Maggie Cheung creating a twister of falling leaves with her mighty sword, and Jet Li running faster than the waterdrops.
Tan Dun's music is excellent, supported by Japanese drummer KODO and violist Itzhak Perlman. Wong Kar Wai's cinematographer buddy Christopher Doyle works to the limit of excellence.
To no doubt, 'Hero' is a heroic masterpiece!