Boring propaganda

Rating: Null/10 (26 October 2003)

A particularly odious propaganda piece that celebrates the virtues of misunderstood Chinese tyrants whose vicious brutality is regrettable, but necessary for the greater good of the people. The kung fu is pretentious. The acting is from the Sullen Posing school of theatre, with the notable exception of Tony Leung, who plays the token human. Zhang Ziyi flits in and out in her usual role as the young woman seeking sexual initiation.
This film is especially obnoxious given the legacy of Tien An Mien. Worst of all, this film is boring. Miss it.