The Lawrentian Vol. This clich' martial arts movie plot is given depth by the two-fold love story that frames it. Theirs is a love of violent passion and the burning desire of youth. The movie explores the contrast of both mature and young love in the context of a repressed society. These plot elements play in front of a backdrop of incredible martial arts action.
People leap from buildings and seem to fly through the air.
These things themselves are fairly unremarkable, but with Ang Lee's deft touch they become enchanting and beautiful. And, of course, the punches are fast and furious, with a mind-boggling array of fantastic weapons. In contrast to the standard action movie, the combat is more a dance than a brawl, more a celebration of creation than of destruction. In a martial arts movie, it's more as if the fighters are joining in a celebration of their powers. This is particularly true of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.