Heartbracking experience

Rating: 9/10 (4 February 2012)

I admit it took me 3 or 4 times to go watch this movie but I tell you it was worth every penny. I kind of misjudge it because I thought that a drama/thriller about the Japanese invasion over China together with a priest from USA would only show how good are the Americans and how can they save everyday. But it was definitely not like this. Although Bale looks to be the main actor I definitely think that Ni Ni ( Yu Mo ) - this Chinese new actress - on top judging her splendid performance. Regarding the story I think it is flawless and this movie can easily be considered an epic one. The colors of war, the drama of the innocent children, the sacrifice of the "big sisters", the cruelty and the low honor of the Japanese soldiers are so intense that it keeps your heart beating as if you were running for an Olympic medal. There is no honor in war, what the Japanese did to the Chinese, in my opinion, it easily tops Hitler or Stalin's behavior towards Lewis people and Russians. Their goal was not only to conquer and to make the enemy capitulate but also to rape every single women soul regarding age and I think that should be one of the things that separate us from the animals; even some animals are smarter than that. On the other hand Bale is playing a perfect role of an undecided man. I mean he's definitely not the hero figure, he's not the "Bruce Willis" kind of character or even Oscar Schindler ( remember the one who saved Jews from extermination with his factory ). He has to choose between what's better for him or what's better for some strangers and his decision together with Ni Ni's perfect play as an escort lady adds the perfect dose of romanticism in times of desperation and lack of self confidence. I rate this movie 9 out of then and I tell you that even if you are not a drama fan this will let a good mark in your head.