I saw Ying xiong (2002). It is now as "Hero" in this country and stars the iconic Jet Li. It was originally released in 2002 in Asia and was a huge success. So Disney has decided to import it into this country and is now banning all sales in the US market of the DVDs. However, with a little work, you can own the Director's Cut (while it is still in US cinemas).
It's a truly magnificent film (as far as cinematography and martial arts goes) and makes an immediate entry into my top twenty films. The film works on several levels. Its a fascinating play (somewhat Rashomon-like) on the concept of a story being told from different perspectives. Its an intriguing premise (I won't say more and spoil it) and the martial arts are spectacular. Add in some of the best use of color that I've ever seen in a film and you have a film that is finally work paying $8.50 to see.
I believe Asia approaches film quite differently than most Western artists/directors. I'm not sure that I've ever seen a Western film that treats the screen as a canvas the same way this film does. Perhaps some of the stuff Wim Wenders has done. I'm at a bit of a loss for words because I haven't seen anything quite like this before.
So I urge you to go see it.
I'm taking a risk and buying the DVD out of Beijing. I hate this practice of pretending the film doesn't exist overseas and trying to control the distribution.
Posted by artandscience at September 5, 2004 09:37 PM