Tears running down my face... "All under Heaven."

Rating: 10/10 (30 May 2004)

This is a film that means a great deal to me. All too often we're asked "what's your favorite movie?" All too often I forget how much this film means to me. If "favorite movie" means "most signifigant" then Hero is my favorite movie. I cannot remember a movie that has made me sob every time I watch it. Understand that I'm a guy, and given as most guys to limited range of emotional expression. This film is perhaps the greatest film *ever* made. It's beauty, intelligence, storytelling, soul, craft, dialogue, acting, directing, writing... it is all exceptionally without flaw. If I ever make a film this great I will count myself as blessed beyond my greatest hopes. Unlike some movies which bring tears because of the spirit and intentions of the film - but which are flawed in other respects (Gladiator, Braveheart, etc) this film is one that brings torrents of tears and each one of them is more precious than platinum. It is the story of four larger than life assassins, and one larger than life Emporer. It is a story about the value of the human life, and the cause which is worthy of the giving that priceless life for. I purchased it probably about a year or so ago on import DVD-9 from Hong Kong. It is my most prized film. Even though I don't understand a word of Chinese, the connection that this film build to my heart every time I watch it is like the Mississipi; wider than the eye can see, deeper than many lakes...full of that which is essential to the provision of continuing life. Unlike other bitter-sweet films, Hero makes me so grateful for everything it is that having to use the only accurate literal phrase "bitter-sweet" becomes just a necessary evil - a byproduct of a limited language. This film MUST be seen at least once in your life... And, if you aren't touched by it, I highly suggest revisiting your inner depths and working to repair your heart and soul - until you do finally understand this films' greatness. Outstanding.