Hero

Hong Kong / China 2002, 99 minutes
Dir. Zhang Yimou
In Mandarin with English subtitles
Rating: [M]
Genres: Foreign Cinema, Action/Adventure / Martial Arts, Fantasy

Topics: Period - B.C..

Feat. Jet Li, Tony Leung (Chiu-wai), Maggie Cheung, Zhang Ziyi, Donnie Yen, Daoming Chen

Aroview: Though no doubt diminished on the small screen, this ancient Martial Arts spectacle from the dir. of RAISE THE RED LANTERN transforms the genre with its ultra-stylised, balletic fight sequences.

Though hopelessly melodramatic and riddled with genre cliche, this is the stuff of legend with 'loyalty' and 'betrayal' writ large across its ravishing canvas, and the four superstars of Chinese cinema ornamenting beautifully.

NZ International Film Festival 2004

Member Reviews

Average rating (Exceptional). Showing 1-4 of 4 member reviews.

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5 stars (Exceptional) Beautiful. A martial arts ballet, with stunning slow-motion sequences and wuxia elements that go even beyond the brilliant 'Crouching Tiger' (although the storyline is not as deep or emotional). ~Tom H
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5 stars (Exceptional) A visual masterpiece, with stunning set pieces and fight scenes that are some of the most beautiful ever put to film. Supplemented with a compelling story and great performances from the cast. ~Wizzums
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5 stars (Exceptional) Sumptuous & stylish. A joy to watch the story unfold. ~Truant
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3 stars (Good Enough) Similar in some respects to "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" (2000) ~Tubbs