I didn't watch this epic film for the longest time because of the low ratings and bad reviews about how boring, unexciting, etc. it is.
I was also skeptical about Chow Yun Fat as Confucius, but it did work somehow, although I suspect there could have been better actors, though not as famous.
However, after seeing Faye Wong's mv for the end song with the scenes form the film, it finally piqued my interest and was I glad I didn't miss this gem after all! It tries to stay close to the historic tales and records in describing Confucius' life, so it could come across as lacking in CGI action, but I think it helps rather than hurts the film.
I MUCH prefer this epic to Red Cliff, the dialogue is much more intelligent and believable, and the acting is much better. It also dispenses with clichés that John Woo is fond of, with the exception of a couple of scenes.
As it is a biopic, there isn't much of Confucius' teachings depicted, but more about political unrest and intrigues.
Don't over analyze this - sit back and enjoy a great historic epic with beautifully created CGI scenes.
It is much more enjoyable than what its solemn subject matter would suggest.
I was also skeptical about Chow Yun Fat as Confucius, but it did work somehow, although I suspect there could have been better actors, though not as famous.
However, after seeing Faye Wong's mv for the end song with the scenes form the film, it finally piqued my interest and was I glad I didn't miss this gem after all! It tries to stay close to the historic tales and records in describing Confucius' life, so it could come across as lacking in CGI action, but I think it helps rather than hurts the film.
I MUCH prefer this epic to Red Cliff, the dialogue is much more intelligent and believable, and the acting is much better. It also dispenses with clichés that John Woo is fond of, with the exception of a couple of scenes.
As it is a biopic, there isn't much of Confucius' teachings depicted, but more about political unrest and intrigues.
Don't over analyze this - sit back and enjoy a great historic epic with beautifully created CGI scenes.
It is much more enjoyable than what its solemn subject matter would suggest.