Visually stunning

Rating: 10/10 (10 October 2004)

I went to see 'Hero' having read some negative comments on the script/plot line. Fortunately those fears were unfounded - Hero is a visually stunning epic. The choreography and photography are first rate, with some truly unforgettable scenery and martial arts.
The multiple flashbacks a la Rashomon could be confusing, but thankfully the careful use of colors to "mark" each version of events helps to keep the momentum going. Admittedly Jet Li is a bit distant for a leading character, but this is a relatively minor quibble.
Anyhow, this is more than compensated for by a show-stealing performance by Maggie Cheung. She delivers a whole spectrum of emotions (from passion to cold murder) with great screen presence, and the heartbreaking scenes at the end were perfectly handled.
All in all, a masterful performance. Let's hope the upcoming House of Daggers manages to deliver to this level of quality acting and filming!