I have to say it's not as good as many users had commended.

Rating: 2/10 (27 May 2004)

I have to say it's not as good as many users had commended. Most Chinese do not regard it as a masterpiece at all. The plot is so surreal and illogical, the theme is way too political!
I was very disappointed (even now， two years had passed). It's simply not worth to see, the film is pointless. Actually, for many of us, it's quite insulting. Initially, I couldn't believe it is directed by Yimou Zhang - one of the best directors in China, who directed To Live, He understands Chinese so well, yet he directed this - a film without HEART. The acting is awful as well, practically not much acting. The actors and actresses are the best ones from China and Hong Kong. Their performances in other films, except Jet Li's, are so much better and more convincing.
People (without much knowledge and background of China and its history and culture) may be misled by this film, they might think it reflects culture, history, martial art¡­, but not really. It is an ill illustration of our culture and values. Also, some people might think it is an independent film. It was the most expensive film ever made in China. Not saying this is not good. Just saying it's an extremely commercial film; presenting art is not the main purpose. And, to get a wide release in China, the theme is strictly censored and 'modified'. For Chinese, it's a lame and overly pretentious film just like the way Americans view Pearl Harbor.
One of my friends told me: "I think it is an advertisement rather than a film, because the plot doesn't make any sense to me! ". Not just an ad for martial art or scenery, it is an ad made by the government! The way it approves dictatorship disgusts me. We simply do not agree its concepts; ordinary Chinese don't want to be governed by an idiot who kills millions of people.
And, it's not a film; it's just a collection of 'beautiful' photos. Yimou Zhang is a big fan of Akria Kurosawa. From his first film till now, he reproduces the ideas, the techniques and even dogmas of Akria Kurosawa. The suspense and the 'fantastic' scenes appeared in Ying Xiong is just a combination of Kurosawa's Rashomon (In the Words) and Kagemusha (The Shadow Warrior).
I just can't believe. After two years, there are so many people on the other side of the ocean, like this film so much. How ironic!