A Wuxia masterpiece with extraordinary screenplay and action scenes

Rating: 10/10 (6 September 2017)

If I had to describe this film in one word, it would be "surreal". In all honesty, I wouldn't even classify this as a historical fiction film, it fits more as a fantasy film, but I'll explain that later.
From the very beginning to the very end, this film has little dialogue between characters, yet the film still has an extremely interesting and complicated plot. The suspense and mystery elements of the plot are expertly crafted with just the right mix of probable yet unsuspecting. Without spoiling too much of the film, I will just say that the plot keeps viewers engaged from beginning to end. The moral ambiguities of the characters allow viewers to generate their own interpretations and understandings of the plot as it goes, which is atypical of most Wuxia films. The plot of this film isn't one of those "good guy beats up bad guys" films or "saving the damsel in distress". The protagonist and the antagonist (so to speak) are both just fighting for their country, but the theme reveals something much larger. Although some people may argue that the plot was being overly dramatic, unrealistic, and too cheesy, I would say that the plot plays perfectly to the fantasy-like historical setting and surreal action.
Moving on to the characters - as I said, this film contains very little dialogue, while perfectly building each character's classiness, mysteriousness, and frankly just their coolness. Again, some may argue that these characters are way too unrealistic and cliché, but as a Wuxia film, these characters, again, fit perfectly. Where each character has their flaws, we all get a sense that these people are above human in almost every way, and that's what the director wants us to feel. These Wuxia have been training for their entire lives, and ARE above us in a godly way, making the film that much more satisfying.
Of course, this film isn't known for its characters and plot, but rather the action and environment. While many Chinese films feature cheesy acting and low budget settings, this film creates a truly epic feeling rivaling that of Saving Private Ryan. The action is truly satisfying with actors the likes of Jet Li and Donnie Yen playing badass roles. And this film takes it to the next level with high budget action scenes that feel surreal from beginning to end - it's everything I've ever wanted in Wuxia action scenes. And finally, the setting of this film is absolutely stunning. Almost every single scene is worthy of being screenshotted and set as a wallpaper. The film captures the complete beauty of nature (presumably during the Warring Kingdoms in China) with the colors of every scene reflecting the tone of the film. I really can't say much more other than this film is an artistic masterpiece - see for yourself. The blend of colors by using the tone of the scene, the props, the clothing, and the scenery itself in every single setting always creates a harmonic and surreal experience for the viewers. If anything, I would highly encourage you to watch it just based on the cinematography. I haven't seen anything like it, not even in the Grand Budapest Hotel or the Secret Life of Walter Mitty - perhaps due to the oriental and historic setting, but nevertheless it's a truly extraordinary experience.
I rate this film a 10/10 not because I think it's flawless (it has a few continuity issues and the pacing isn't exactly amazing), but because it's a Wuxia masterpiece unlike anything else I've seen. I'm a sucker for cinematography and action so that itself deserves a 10/10, but with an amazing plot as well, it's one of the top films I've ever recommended.