An absolutely needed movie for Chinese cinematography. Surprisingly edgy and mystical that makes one wonder how did it ever pass the "bar". Many scenes reminded me of the Red Wedding from Game of Thrones, and indeed as many lauded, this could very well be the Chinese version of GOT or Lord of the Rings. At the same time, the film has so many things that is so distinctly Chinese in terms of its value system and culture. No doubt, I hope the sequels gets the green light, as these films could really push our culture and stories forward to a larger stage. Only gripe is that there is still a sense of awkwardness in some of the acting, most specifically with the King. Nevertheless, it is still one of the greatest villains I've seen in a Chinese film and the casting of the younger actors are fantastic, finally some masculinity again!
37 Reviews
Aesthetically pleasing, but empty in content
y-4060523 September 2023
Let's start with the pros. Some of the costumes, art, and casting in the movie are excellent. Fei Xiang's face has a very advanced sense of screen quality, Yang Jian's casting, styling, and action design are bright and eye-catching, Su Daji is more in line with personal aesthetics, and the fox's dynamic expression is very dynamic. Zhaoge and Xiji are each unified in terms of visual sensibility, color, and design language, and from an art perspective, the shaping of the worldview is successfully completed. Zhaoge and Xiji are unified in their visual senses, colors, and design language, and from an art perspective, the shaping of the film's worldview is successfully completed.
The biggest problem is that the script is too weak in literature and has too many contradictory points of logic. The whole movie is boring if you take away the art and special effects. The deaths of Empress Jiang and Bigan were awkward, and the deaths were meaningless.
The biggest problem is that the script is too weak in literature and has too many contradictory points of logic. The whole movie is boring if you take away the art and special effects. The deaths of Empress Jiang and Bigan were awkward, and the deaths were meaningless.
The best movie for this novel so far
llingda24 September 2023
The original novel was published 400 years ago and have too many memorable moments. So it is very unsuitable for movie use. Moreover, Chinese classical novels, especially this type of novels, (hua beng) do not have the sublimation of characters in modern Western novels, so they are not necessarily suitable for movies. So the director made simplifications and trade-offs here. Many familiar scenes have not been retained. The perspective of the movie is abandoned and the change of a character is the most important driving force for the movie. The visuals have improved a lot. It is already very good to have such a performance.
Extreme fantasy but still a good watch
mosquitocyn17 October 2023
Firstly I'm not inclined to fantasy movies, so my review may be impacted. But it was recommended again and again by others and I watched it. It is indeed extreme fantasy, loud, fast and with all sorts of creatures beyond your imagination. Overall, the movie was executed pretty well given it crammed so many stories and characters together. The first one hour was a bit disconnected - I guess because the plot had to be introduced via so many channels. I found the scenes on The Immortals a bit tiring. After the first hour, the movie seemed to flow better. The fighting scenes are very well done. The demons are quite imaginative and believable. Even though it's around 2.5 hours, the time passes quickly. Will I watch the sequel? Not sure as this may be too much fantasy for me.
Bombastic, loud, and a lot of fun
poikkeus130 September 2023
Chinese mythological epics are rare - mainly because cast of characters and their relationships to mystical themes can be overwhelming. Lots of characters and events compete with waning audience attention.
It's surprising how satisfying the film is. There's battles galore, assisted by the support of abundant CGI in nearly every frame; some effects worked (the battles) while others didn't (the flying fox spirit), while a visit to the realm of the immortals was disappointing. While the story itself was irregularly paced, I found it more absorbing than, say, LOTR, and you can't deny that Chinese mythology has never been rendered as well as this film.
There's loud instrumental music from start to finish, with plenty of fights to keep your attention. The sincerity of the narrative is balanced by an amusing trio of spirits who try to prop up a failing Shang dynasty. It's really a miracle of sorts that the narrative coheres so well.
It's surprising how satisfying the film is. There's battles galore, assisted by the support of abundant CGI in nearly every frame; some effects worked (the battles) while others didn't (the flying fox spirit), while a visit to the realm of the immortals was disappointing. While the story itself was irregularly paced, I found it more absorbing than, say, LOTR, and you can't deny that Chinese mythology has never been rendered as well as this film.
There's loud instrumental music from start to finish, with plenty of fights to keep your attention. The sincerity of the narrative is balanced by an amusing trio of spirits who try to prop up a failing Shang dynasty. It's really a miracle of sorts that the narrative coheres so well.
A masterpiece
byronyang1 August 2023
Absolutely a fantastic movie, the storyline, the acting, the virtual images, the music all made this movie an Epic movie.
Let me talk about the conclusion first: this is the best mythical epic movie in China!
As a fan who read Fengshen Yanyi at the age of seven and re-read the original novel countless times in more than 20 years, I can say responsibly that this movie is definitely not a magic reform! On the contrary, it is the first masterpiece among all film and television adaptations.
Some passages that seem magical at first glance are actually well-founded, and they are the optimal solution after careful research and selection. The adaptation of the movie is very good.
This new story from a contemporary perspective can be called a divine script. It is seamless from beginning to end, and echoes before and after the transition.
Can't wait for the 2nd one!! Highly recommend to everyone!
Let me talk about the conclusion first: this is the best mythical epic movie in China!
As a fan who read Fengshen Yanyi at the age of seven and re-read the original novel countless times in more than 20 years, I can say responsibly that this movie is definitely not a magic reform! On the contrary, it is the first masterpiece among all film and television adaptations.
Some passages that seem magical at first glance are actually well-founded, and they are the optimal solution after careful research and selection. The adaptation of the movie is very good.
This new story from a contemporary perspective can be called a divine script. It is seamless from beginning to end, and echoes before and after the transition.
Can't wait for the 2nd one!! Highly recommend to everyone!
Odyssey of the Orient
dorMancyx25 September 2023
Since its detonating release in the mainland, this movie was praised as legend among the viewers. Indeed, Feng Shen represents China's highest standard of film production, whether VFX, production and costume design, screenplay adoption, choreography, and performance. Despite the few scenes at Kunlun with questionable green screen utility, the visual effect is much better than that in The Flash, as the extreme wide shots of the coronation or the sacrificial pyre depict architectural grandeur without forgetting the details of men. In terms of bringing one of China's most famed mythology into life, the movie succeeds once more in modifying the intent of Daji the Fox Demon and adding the Army of Hostages; my personal favorites are Nezha's Fire Wheels and Red Sash, which are exactly what I pictured from the original text. Performance wise, Fei Xiang and Na Ran are doubtlessly the best castings for the devious tyrant and the animalistic temptress.
Onto the negatives, the movie seems to portray plot-driven characters instead of having the characters pilot the storylines. Especially approaching the final act, the deaths and arcs of numerous characters, including the protagonist, either appear scripted or simply do not convince me. This could be the result of extensive editing and condensation in regards to the length, which is always an issue for commercial films with adopted screenplay. The work is enough as entertainment, but if the trilogy wants to become classic, it still needs a push.
Can't wait to see the second.
Onto the negatives, the movie seems to portray plot-driven characters instead of having the characters pilot the storylines. Especially approaching the final act, the deaths and arcs of numerous characters, including the protagonist, either appear scripted or simply do not convince me. This could be the result of extensive editing and condensation in regards to the length, which is always an issue for commercial films with adopted screenplay. The work is enough as entertainment, but if the trilogy wants to become classic, it still needs a push.
Can't wait to see the second.
A phenomenal movie of Chinese epic!
ranbo-1169513 August 2023
It's a phenomenal movie, it revolves around the core of the prophase of the Chinese civilization--fatherhood and inheritance. The director has excellent taste in history and Chinese myth. Very clear storyline and character shaping, all of them correspond to the ancient Chinese value system, the kind intent to manipulate his sons equals he wants to dominate the whole regime, but he has the ambition to eliminate his ancestors to build his surmountable power which makes he be seemed as a villain in Chinese culture. The cinematography is top-notch, I am appealed to the whole time in the movie! Highly recommended, it's a stunning epical representation of the Shang Dynasty and Chinese myth!
Is it Macbeth in Chinese? Shakespeare will be angry 😂
darabisam26 April 2024
Warning: Spoilers
The story is completely a script from Macbeth, the general, the witch (s), the commanders and friends even the wife...
The story begins like Macbeth, yes the general and commanders gathered togethered to eliminate a rebellion lord who wants to be against the king, after defeating and beheading him, the general found a witch or encountered with a witch and with her power as well as her foretell became the king and the Macbeth story keeps continuing and continuing with the same moments that we all know, like removing loyal lords, friends, wife.
The cruel king wants to kill everyone even his son, because he thinks they want to get his throne....
Sorry Shakespeare 🤣
The cruel king wants to kill everyone even his son, because he thinks they want to get his throne....
Sorry Shakespeare 🤣
Lazy script writing
xiaohei-801121 January 2024
Warning: Spoilers
Firstly I watch this online streaming and attract by its first 10 min fight scene and decided to watch in cinema. The cast was great in their role but The brainless writer treat audience as fools. Too many loopholes in the story. The 3 lead deities were an icon to our Chinese culture yet portrait as a funny and fool character. This story can end in 10 min because of their foolish act.
The Cgi so fake especially Dragon and elephant and yet still got audience compare with LOTR. What the most unreasonable scene is the son tight the rope topless like AV SM to ask for forgiveness. The movie try to sell fresh meat of young men to attract female audience making the movie painful to watch. Most of the story filling the gap with coincidence event to keep it going.
At Europe primier screening, u can sense that most of the reviewer were paid to say the movie was same as LOTR which was completely insult to the LOTR. Even AI writing was better than this. Most of the paid reviewer will scold u if u criticize their film not good. I not even interested incoming part 2 and 3.
The Cgi so fake especially Dragon and elephant and yet still got audience compare with LOTR. What the most unreasonable scene is the son tight the rope topless like AV SM to ask for forgiveness. The movie try to sell fresh meat of young men to attract female audience making the movie painful to watch. Most of the story filling the gap with coincidence event to keep it going.
At Europe primier screening, u can sense that most of the reviewer were paid to say the movie was same as LOTR which was completely insult to the LOTR. Even AI writing was better than this. Most of the paid reviewer will scold u if u criticize their film not good. I not even interested incoming part 2 and 3.
Epic!
x-3190927 July 2023
Warning: Spoilers
This is the best Chinese fantasy epic movie I've ever seen. With top-notch script, nice visual effects, and most importantly, full respect for the ancient wisdom in the collective imagination of folklore and myths, it depicts a tragic picture of human beings, deities and demons at the time of change. Despite that the picture is huge, the way the storyteller walk us through it is quite personal. It landed on the dilemma of a teenager who was asked by the monarch to kill his father. His responsibility as a son, a loyal guard of king, and as an individual conflicts with each other, keeping him in misery and forcing him to make a final decision. Therefore, in spite of the ancient Chinese setting, it has the power to touch people from another culture background. I believe people around the globe will like it as much as they like the Game of Thrones.
Creation of the Gods 1: Kingdom of Storms
CinemaSerf21 October 2023
As with any film that's the first in a trilogy, this spends just a little too long setting out who's who but once it does, this develops into an enjoyable fantasy adventure film that brings a wonderfully vibrant myriad of Chinese mythological and human characters to life. Ancient rivalries and battles between humanity, the deities and some marvellously created mystical beasts - especially the dragons - form the basis of the story set some three millennia ago. Personally, I tended to the side of the immortals - and there's even the slightest hint of a bromance for one of them - as the "Demon Fox", and the manipulative "King Zhou" use mankind's greed, avarice, loyalty and decency to ensure they retain their place at the top of the mountain. The visual effects are usually top drawer and the action scenes avoid the often lazily constructed, repetitive, style of combat scenes. Now the acting isn't the best - indeed there is plenty of woodenness for us to inspect here, and I also found it a bit over-scored, but the richness of the mythology could, a bit like "Lord of the Rings", perhaps, provide for more characterful adventures and personality development in the next film. For a part one, though, it's a long, but increasingly quite compelling watch if you like the genre and appreciate the wealth of stories before us. Get comfy though - we're in for a long ride!
Inconsistent special effects, a plot that lacks any logical progression, terrible acting, and chaotic editing. In summary, it's a film where directorial control is completely
leslalee-9360314 August 2023
Inconsistent special effects, a plot that lacks any logical progression, terrible acting, and chaotic editing. In summary, it's a film where directorial control is completely lost.
Starting with the visual effects, they are far behind the times aesthetically. Throughout the entire movie, there isn't a single scene that's memorable or leaves an impression. The aesthetic of the effects even comes across as comically bad, almost like watching a poorly made online game advertisement.
Plot: The director could argue that this is the first film in a series, and there's a lot of ground to cover, so not everything can be accommodated. However, the movie's plot lacks coherence; the main storyline is feeble, and the transitions between plot points are illogical and abrupt. If this is due to censorship and runtime constraints that led to edits, then I'm looking forward to a director's cut that might change my perspective.
Performances: The performances of the new actors are terrible. The dialogue and actions of the actors lack logic; there isn't a single character whose behavior has logic or reason behind it. Each character feels like a puppet of the director, and the audience can't connect or empathize with them at all.
Editing: The chaotic editing results in a jumbled narrative and abrupt scene transitions. The director's shot selection and editing are subpar.
Sound Effects: Apart from being loud, the sound effects completely fail to evoke any emotional response from the audience.
To sum it up: this is an unqualified movie.
Starting with the visual effects, they are far behind the times aesthetically. Throughout the entire movie, there isn't a single scene that's memorable or leaves an impression. The aesthetic of the effects even comes across as comically bad, almost like watching a poorly made online game advertisement.
Plot: The director could argue that this is the first film in a series, and there's a lot of ground to cover, so not everything can be accommodated. However, the movie's plot lacks coherence; the main storyline is feeble, and the transitions between plot points are illogical and abrupt. If this is due to censorship and runtime constraints that led to edits, then I'm looking forward to a director's cut that might change my perspective.
Performances: The performances of the new actors are terrible. The dialogue and actions of the actors lack logic; there isn't a single character whose behavior has logic or reason behind it. Each character feels like a puppet of the director, and the audience can't connect or empathize with them at all.
Editing: The chaotic editing results in a jumbled narrative and abrupt scene transitions. The director's shot selection and editing are subpar.
Sound Effects: Apart from being loud, the sound effects completely fail to evoke any emotional response from the audience.
To sum it up: this is an unqualified movie.
The Best Movie I've Ever Watched in China
a-63611-9619922 August 2023
As a Chinese-speaking expat in China and a movie enthusiast, I've had the opportunity to watch the majority of Chinese films released over the past decade since my move here. With a profound respect for Chinese culture, "Creations of the Gods: Kingdom of Storms" was truly the cherry on top for me. It breathed life into my Chinese mythology fantasies, all while maintaining a remarkable level of professionalism. This movie boasts exceptional quality, and I find myself consistently recommending it to those around me. Witnessing the industry progress to such lengths is nothing short of amazing!
This movie deserves a place in cinemas worldwide. I hope it will be appreciated by viewers around the globe.
This movie deserves a place in cinemas worldwide. I hope it will be appreciated by viewers around the globe.
Epic Chinese mythology movie not to be missed
voyage-lam7 September 2023
(This review mainly focuses on facts and what happened behind the scenes to hopefully give you a brief idea of the efforts they have input in making the Trilogy.)
I am truly in awe of the high quality of the movie consistently demonstrated in all aspects, a master-piece conjured with the blood, sweat and tears of a team of nearly 10,000 crew: the mind blowing cinematographic effects, the exceptionally amazing actors (whether it be men or women, new or seasoned), the extremely elaborate costumes, the lavish grand palace and buildings crafted by 2204 carpenters, the beautiful original scores and songs, the simply superb and talented Director Wuershan who has dedicated whole heartedly more than 9 years to the Trilogy while constantly striking nothing but perfection throughout... The list goes on.
I am impressed by the new actors and actresses who survived 6-8 months in an intensive training camp. Their daily routine usually ran from 5am to 9pm, 6 days a week, where they were required to undergo various types of training including riding, archery, combat, music, history, physical training, swimming and performing, all of which helped transform them into what warriors should look like 3000 years ago - not just the muscles, but also the SPIRIT! And yes, their acting skills may be debatable, but they are by no means awkward. They are meant to play roles that are in the teens/early twenties, which are exactly where they were when the movie started shooting more than 5 years ago. Practically all of them were new to equestrian, one of the many subjects they had to master in the training camp. By the time they graduated, they all became excellent riders that were able to perform amazing acts in concert. That's why the horseback riding shots are so breathtaking - no stunts at all. About this, I would in particular raise my glasses to Yu Shi (Yosh), the actor that plays Jifa. He has a reputation for constantly pushing himself to the limit, back then and throughout those years while waiting for the movie to be released (which was overdue for 3 years). There is a jaw-dropping scene where he turned around and shot arrows from the horseback without reins, something apparently so dangerous that no one else (the equestrian director included) in the set was able to complete. He insisted on performing everything himself and eventually he pulled it off with flying colors. I am sure this is only one of the many spectacular moments that he will be remembered for, down the line.
As for the King, I adore Kris Phillips' (AKA Fei Xiang) portrayal and I beg to differ from those who took the view that his acting was terrible. Anyone who goes to the movie with a peaceful heart cannot possibly have come up with that blatant conclusion. His dramatic expressions and awesome physique imparted life to the King who is known in history and novels as someone smart, strong, tall but most of the time, brutal... Many Chinese are of the view that no one else in modern days is better fitted to play the King.
Jichang, played by Li Xuejian, is another role that truly touches my heart. He is a veteran Chinese actor who has won probably all the awards in China that can be garnered. Some may laugh at the way he speaks in the movie, but please understand that he has been fighting nasopharyngeal cancer for more than 2 decades, which has seriously affected how he articulates and his hearing too. Why did they insist on using his own voice? It is because only that way, an actor could fully unleash to the audience what the role should really be like. Mr. Li's performance is powerful and flawless in every scene.
Surely, there are areas that require improvements. The special effects - yes, they could have been better but considering the lack of funding and the fact that the Director had to pay out of his pocket to keep it going, I am only hoping the first Installment of the Trilogy could score better in worldwide box office so that more funds can be injected to improve that area which is very important to the 2nd and the 3rd installments. The plot - yes, some wonderfully shot scenes did not appear in the movie, which arguably could help audience understand better, but the Director had to make a judgement call in order not to compromise the integrity of the story line, and having a movie longer than 2.5 hours means more difficulty in getting it released in Chinese theatres, apparently...
Truth be told. I've seen the Creation of the Gods 5 times, 4 on iMax. Each time, I was able to find details that I previously missed. Each time, I was able to feel more. I have never repeated a movie this many times.
So if you have a big heart and are happy to embrace cultural diversityies, may I urge you to give this movie a chance, and please do so on iMax theatre if you can!
I am truly in awe of the high quality of the movie consistently demonstrated in all aspects, a master-piece conjured with the blood, sweat and tears of a team of nearly 10,000 crew: the mind blowing cinematographic effects, the exceptionally amazing actors (whether it be men or women, new or seasoned), the extremely elaborate costumes, the lavish grand palace and buildings crafted by 2204 carpenters, the beautiful original scores and songs, the simply superb and talented Director Wuershan who has dedicated whole heartedly more than 9 years to the Trilogy while constantly striking nothing but perfection throughout... The list goes on.
I am impressed by the new actors and actresses who survived 6-8 months in an intensive training camp. Their daily routine usually ran from 5am to 9pm, 6 days a week, where they were required to undergo various types of training including riding, archery, combat, music, history, physical training, swimming and performing, all of which helped transform them into what warriors should look like 3000 years ago - not just the muscles, but also the SPIRIT! And yes, their acting skills may be debatable, but they are by no means awkward. They are meant to play roles that are in the teens/early twenties, which are exactly where they were when the movie started shooting more than 5 years ago. Practically all of them were new to equestrian, one of the many subjects they had to master in the training camp. By the time they graduated, they all became excellent riders that were able to perform amazing acts in concert. That's why the horseback riding shots are so breathtaking - no stunts at all. About this, I would in particular raise my glasses to Yu Shi (Yosh), the actor that plays Jifa. He has a reputation for constantly pushing himself to the limit, back then and throughout those years while waiting for the movie to be released (which was overdue for 3 years). There is a jaw-dropping scene where he turned around and shot arrows from the horseback without reins, something apparently so dangerous that no one else (the equestrian director included) in the set was able to complete. He insisted on performing everything himself and eventually he pulled it off with flying colors. I am sure this is only one of the many spectacular moments that he will be remembered for, down the line.
As for the King, I adore Kris Phillips' (AKA Fei Xiang) portrayal and I beg to differ from those who took the view that his acting was terrible. Anyone who goes to the movie with a peaceful heart cannot possibly have come up with that blatant conclusion. His dramatic expressions and awesome physique imparted life to the King who is known in history and novels as someone smart, strong, tall but most of the time, brutal... Many Chinese are of the view that no one else in modern days is better fitted to play the King.
Jichang, played by Li Xuejian, is another role that truly touches my heart. He is a veteran Chinese actor who has won probably all the awards in China that can be garnered. Some may laugh at the way he speaks in the movie, but please understand that he has been fighting nasopharyngeal cancer for more than 2 decades, which has seriously affected how he articulates and his hearing too. Why did they insist on using his own voice? It is because only that way, an actor could fully unleash to the audience what the role should really be like. Mr. Li's performance is powerful and flawless in every scene.
Surely, there are areas that require improvements. The special effects - yes, they could have been better but considering the lack of funding and the fact that the Director had to pay out of his pocket to keep it going, I am only hoping the first Installment of the Trilogy could score better in worldwide box office so that more funds can be injected to improve that area which is very important to the 2nd and the 3rd installments. The plot - yes, some wonderfully shot scenes did not appear in the movie, which arguably could help audience understand better, but the Director had to make a judgement call in order not to compromise the integrity of the story line, and having a movie longer than 2.5 hours means more difficulty in getting it released in Chinese theatres, apparently...
Truth be told. I've seen the Creation of the Gods 5 times, 4 on iMax. Each time, I was able to find details that I previously missed. Each time, I was able to feel more. I have never repeated a movie this many times.
So if you have a big heart and are happy to embrace cultural diversityies, may I urge you to give this movie a chance, and please do so on iMax theatre if you can!
Gave up watching after 15 minutes
pottypat-406-98890914 April 2024
Unfortunately CGI's over use for spectacle does not make up the writers need for a decent script. What remains are all the usual cliches used in these types of films. Why use 10 Trebuchets, when you can have 100? Etc. Loyal and obedient to the death sons, grubby barbaric warlord traitors and demonic women abound. Shame this sort of nationalistic nonsense gets funding to the detriment of the great films that China can and has produced in the previous 100 years. It all looked wonderful, like a shiny Hollywood musical but I was bored 15 minutes in and gave up. I'm sure the original tale was far better. Learn Mandarin and read the original. Got be easier than watching this.
Best fantasy/epic movie I have seen
realbackuplee17 September 2023
If you love fantasy, adventure, and eastern culture, you have to watch Creation of the Gods I: Kingdom of Storms. It's an awesome movie that takes you to a world of ancient Chinese mythology, where gods, demons, and humans fight for their destiny. The movie is based on a classic novel, but it also has some cool twists and surprises that make it unique. The movie is so beautiful to look at, with amazing scenery, action, and effects. You feel like you are in the middle of the epic battles and adventures. Nearly all actors play their roles really well. Huang Bo is amazing as Jiang Ziya. He is funny, smart, and brave. The movie also explores some deep themes, like fate, free will, loyalty, betrayal, love, and power. You will see how the characters struggle with their choices and consequences, and how they grow and change. The movie also shows some aspects of Chinese culture, history, philosophy, and religion, which make it more authentic and interesting. It's the first part of a trilogy, and I can't wait to see what happens next.
Mongol version of Cats (the movie)
Worldwidewebslinger3 January 2024
I normally steer clear of reviewing movies because I don't like imposing my opinions on other people, but my Mongol colleague, who's sitting next to me right now, has been pestering me to watch it ever since it came out and I finally caved, just so he could shut up about it. Now, having spent nearly three hours of my life and 25 bucks of my life savings to properly appreciate how millions of dollars could be translated into a steaming pile of garbage, I registered an IMDB account just to post everything that was so obnoxiously wrong with this movie so that you, the reader, don't have to suffer my fate (and a passive-aggressive response to his harassment).
One of the first things that I want to make absolutely clear to you, as my Mongol colleague has been making absolutely clear to me, is that in the Mongol community this movie is considered Mongolian instead of Chinese, because not only the director, the main cast and the brain trust are all Mongolian, the storyline and the main characters are also Mongolian [?]. My Mongol colleague also made it clear that the fox lady's actress is half Mongol and half Russian, which makes her more appealing than an actress who is "only" of Chinese descent [??]. So yeah, if you are looking for an exquisite example of excellent Chinese cinema, don't bother, because that apparently wasn't the intention.
There are also the technical aspects, which my Mongol colleague insists must be "very good and advanced" because the production teams are all Hollywood veterans based in Hollywood while the special effects were done by Weta. They weren't, and that he cannot envision a purely Mongolian production being state-of-the-art would have been somewhat depressing, had the production value been any good. As it is, I was surprised to hear that the movie should have come out around 2019, because the production looked standard for something that came out around 1979 (not that I'm comparing it to Alien, because back then Ridley Scott had imagination and this film's director clearly doesn't).
The script was also especially bad, though I'm not sure whether it's actually bad, or the translation is bad, or the direction is bad. I'm not sure because though I had trouble following the plot and the dialogue, I have the feeling that the actors also had trouble following the plot and the dialogue, since they either looked confused or embarrassed; even their overacting lacked conviction. The elements that I did grasp - the many, many patricides and the recurring theme of youngsters dancing while half-naked - seemed bad taste, but what do I know about Mongolian culture.
My Mongol colleague was also convinced that I would like the film because some guy named Kris Phillips played a major role, because 1) he is half white, and I am white, so that would endear him to me [????], and 2) he is a Broadway megastar, despite not being famous. Unconvinced, because I, indeed, didn't like his acting very much just because he was half white, I looked him up online, and saw his biggest role to date was an unnamed extra in Miss Saigon; great for him to land a main role in a million-dollar production, but not-so-great news for the production if that's the biggest "Hollywood" help they can boast.
I think the only people who actually derive pleasure from this traumatizingly bad movie probably don't really exist, or else just love the scenes where the young people danced half-naked. Honestly, any movie looks like Godfather II next to it, including Shazam II or even, God forbid, Godfather III. FBI should take note; this Mongol movie, with its unintelligible story and dialogue, expensively cheap special effects and disgusting but childish direction at nearly three hours of running time, can be re-imagined as a torture device that even the most hardened criminals would crack when exposed to.
Maybe me posting this review, and my Mongol colleague possibly seeing it, would end our "friendship". Maybe that'd be a good thing.
One of the first things that I want to make absolutely clear to you, as my Mongol colleague has been making absolutely clear to me, is that in the Mongol community this movie is considered Mongolian instead of Chinese, because not only the director, the main cast and the brain trust are all Mongolian, the storyline and the main characters are also Mongolian [?]. My Mongol colleague also made it clear that the fox lady's actress is half Mongol and half Russian, which makes her more appealing than an actress who is "only" of Chinese descent [??]. So yeah, if you are looking for an exquisite example of excellent Chinese cinema, don't bother, because that apparently wasn't the intention.
There are also the technical aspects, which my Mongol colleague insists must be "very good and advanced" because the production teams are all Hollywood veterans based in Hollywood while the special effects were done by Weta. They weren't, and that he cannot envision a purely Mongolian production being state-of-the-art would have been somewhat depressing, had the production value been any good. As it is, I was surprised to hear that the movie should have come out around 2019, because the production looked standard for something that came out around 1979 (not that I'm comparing it to Alien, because back then Ridley Scott had imagination and this film's director clearly doesn't).
The script was also especially bad, though I'm not sure whether it's actually bad, or the translation is bad, or the direction is bad. I'm not sure because though I had trouble following the plot and the dialogue, I have the feeling that the actors also had trouble following the plot and the dialogue, since they either looked confused or embarrassed; even their overacting lacked conviction. The elements that I did grasp - the many, many patricides and the recurring theme of youngsters dancing while half-naked - seemed bad taste, but what do I know about Mongolian culture.
My Mongol colleague was also convinced that I would like the film because some guy named Kris Phillips played a major role, because 1) he is half white, and I am white, so that would endear him to me [????], and 2) he is a Broadway megastar, despite not being famous. Unconvinced, because I, indeed, didn't like his acting very much just because he was half white, I looked him up online, and saw his biggest role to date was an unnamed extra in Miss Saigon; great for him to land a main role in a million-dollar production, but not-so-great news for the production if that's the biggest "Hollywood" help they can boast.
I think the only people who actually derive pleasure from this traumatizingly bad movie probably don't really exist, or else just love the scenes where the young people danced half-naked. Honestly, any movie looks like Godfather II next to it, including Shazam II or even, God forbid, Godfather III. FBI should take note; this Mongol movie, with its unintelligible story and dialogue, expensively cheap special effects and disgusting but childish direction at nearly three hours of running time, can be re-imagined as a torture device that even the most hardened criminals would crack when exposed to.
Maybe me posting this review, and my Mongol colleague possibly seeing it, would end our "friendship". Maybe that'd be a good thing.
You will never regret watch China's best mythological epic movie
youshuishini15 September 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Let me share more background.
The story of the Creation of God (Fengshen in Chinese) was passed down over 3000 years ago in the Shang and Zhou Dynasties. Then, about 2500 years later, a writer from the Ming Dynasty wrote a book, "Fengshen YanYi," for sale to collect money for his daughter's dowry. Nobody could prove if it is true that the writer wrote it for his daughter, but this is the 1st book to build the Chinese epic system. Later, all excellent Chinese epic novels were based on its design.
The movie combined the novel and fundamental historical research.
Creation of God is an imaginary myth with the Shang and Zhou dynasties as its background and Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and folk beliefs as its connotations.
Various settings are based on the past dynasties of China, mainly bronzes of the Shang and Zhou dynasties, landscapes of the Song dynasty, and Taoist culture of the Yuan and Ming dynasties. The integrated innovation after reorganization essentially expresses a myth and legend with an epic temperament, so it isn't very meaningful to verify it from the perspective of historical textual research.
'Feng Shen bang,' the white jade roll in the movie, means a list of people to be sent/hired to the God positions in Heaven.
The movie has two storylines. One is about finding "God" to send to Heaven. Another line is in the transition of the Shang Dynasty to the Zhou Dynasty. In the first movie, the young man had been PUA by the Ruler of the Shang Dynasty. He was woken up by what his biological father told him: It doesn't matter who your father is; It does matter who you are. The young man, JiFa, will become a hero and the only Ruler of all realms. And those parts will be in the 2nd and 3rd movies.
It took over nine years to bring the movie out, and over 10 thousand people have been working on it; some passed away before the movie came out.
If you are still trying to figure out how sincere this movie is, please search more on YouTube or other video introductions.
If you see gold, you won't be attracted by bronze.
This movie is gold.
The story of the Creation of God (Fengshen in Chinese) was passed down over 3000 years ago in the Shang and Zhou Dynasties. Then, about 2500 years later, a writer from the Ming Dynasty wrote a book, "Fengshen YanYi," for sale to collect money for his daughter's dowry. Nobody could prove if it is true that the writer wrote it for his daughter, but this is the 1st book to build the Chinese epic system. Later, all excellent Chinese epic novels were based on its design.
The movie combined the novel and fundamental historical research.
Creation of God is an imaginary myth with the Shang and Zhou dynasties as its background and Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and folk beliefs as its connotations.
Various settings are based on the past dynasties of China, mainly bronzes of the Shang and Zhou dynasties, landscapes of the Song dynasty, and Taoist culture of the Yuan and Ming dynasties. The integrated innovation after reorganization essentially expresses a myth and legend with an epic temperament, so it isn't very meaningful to verify it from the perspective of historical textual research.
'Feng Shen bang,' the white jade roll in the movie, means a list of people to be sent/hired to the God positions in Heaven.
The movie has two storylines. One is about finding "God" to send to Heaven. Another line is in the transition of the Shang Dynasty to the Zhou Dynasty. In the first movie, the young man had been PUA by the Ruler of the Shang Dynasty. He was woken up by what his biological father told him: It doesn't matter who your father is; It does matter who you are. The young man, JiFa, will become a hero and the only Ruler of all realms. And those parts will be in the 2nd and 3rd movies.
It took over nine years to bring the movie out, and over 10 thousand people have been working on it; some passed away before the movie came out.
If you are still trying to figure out how sincere this movie is, please search more on YouTube or other video introductions.
If you see gold, you won't be attracted by bronze.
This movie is gold.
A new mythical epic film
e-997109 September 2023
Warning: Spoilers
This is a fantastic film. It has stunning imagination and constructs an enormous, grand worldview. It's a mythological story from ancient China, with many elements.
Although the special effects still have some flaws, and there aren't too many scenes of battles between gods and immortals. The scenes are still impressive. The opening battle in the snow and ice was spectacular.
The ancient architecture in the film is well made, with very rich details, realistic and with historical depth, showing the production team's care and effort.
The plot is decent, without many plot holes.
It's really a pleasant surprise to see a mythic epic based on Chinese mythology. I'm tired of watching those Hollywood mythological and fantasy films. The European mythic epics are not produced on a large scale, which is unsatisfying to watch.
Mythic epics of this scale are also rare in film history.
Overall it's very good, it just ends abruptly, hoping to see a sequel.
Although the special effects still have some flaws, and there aren't too many scenes of battles between gods and immortals. The scenes are still impressive. The opening battle in the snow and ice was spectacular.
The ancient architecture in the film is well made, with very rich details, realistic and with historical depth, showing the production team's care and effort.
The plot is decent, without many plot holes.
It's really a pleasant surprise to see a mythic epic based on Chinese mythology. I'm tired of watching those Hollywood mythological and fantasy films. The European mythic epics are not produced on a large scale, which is unsatisfying to watch.
Mythic epics of this scale are also rare in film history.
Overall it's very good, it just ends abruptly, hoping to see a sequel.
too much hatred, typical patriarchy
sjjulie31 July 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I actually roll my eyes during the opening 10 minutes.
Manipulating one ""adopted" son into killing himself before his biological father and other "adopted "sons into charging and shouting hateful slogans like "bare land To Gizhou?" This hatred svene pretty much lay the basis tone for this movie
True, the special effects OK and the performance of Li Xuejian is more than satisfactory. But it is still a movie in which women are either decorations, or evilcausers. The only thing that saves the world is "one true king of all", or the "true bond "between father and sons. Yes you may call it "true to original texts", but still...
Not worth watching .Might as well save time for other things.
Manipulating one ""adopted" son into killing himself before his biological father and other "adopted "sons into charging and shouting hateful slogans like "bare land To Gizhou?" This hatred svene pretty much lay the basis tone for this movie
True, the special effects OK and the performance of Li Xuejian is more than satisfactory. But it is still a movie in which women are either decorations, or evilcausers. The only thing that saves the world is "one true king of all", or the "true bond "between father and sons. Yes you may call it "true to original texts", but still...
Not worth watching .Might as well save time for other things.
A good film from china
l-1870525 September 2023
Warning: Spoilers
This is a very good film, it is a trilogy series adapted from the Chinese mythology "acting for a long time". The whole article presents us with a very high artistic technique and photography skills to present a world of Yin merchants four thousand years ago. I think this film can get a very high score. It is not only a wonderful story, the actors have excellent acting skills, but the whole narrative is also quite attractive. When I saw Ji Fa finally return to Xizhi, my tears came down. The film made me feel quite deep. After a long period of watching the film, my aunt fell into it. I often wondered what it would be like if Boyi had survived, if Shang Wang Yinshou had not been bewitched by Da Ji, or, in other words, Da Ji had bewitched Shang Wang. Or did the Shang King choose Da Ji, which made me fall into deep thinking... All in all, this is a very good film, it can get a very high score, I hope the second film next year and the third film the following year will once again bring a surprise, this perfect mythological board is well translated, salute all the producers of the seal god.
Huh?
timb-5098915 October 2023
I wish I didn't have to leave a rating to post a review, because I really can't tell you how good or bad this movie is. Why? Because I don't speak the language and thus have to resort to close captioning. Normally that isn't a problem. I probably watch several movies with subtitles each year for just this reason. Sometimes they go buy a bit too quickly to make for a comfortable read. Occasionally they present color problems, i.e. White text in a film set primarily in the snow. But this is a rare and special case. Whoever/whatever did the translations did a really poor job, they simply don't make sense for a significant percentage of the film. How often? I would guess somewhere between 10 and 20% of the time.
If you can watch the film in the native language, other reviewers seem to enjoy it. If, like I, you were planning to use closed captioning, I recommend you find another film.
If you can watch the film in the native language, other reviewers seem to enjoy it. If, like I, you were planning to use closed captioning, I recommend you find another film.
Epic never fall, stay tuned for Creation of the Gods II !!!
lowhueyyen25 September 2023
The scenes was amazing!! I am waiting too long for this movie to screen start from July 2023 and it finally come to my country, Malaysia!! I am so excited when hearing this good news.
Honestly, this was my first time in writing the review of the movies. This movie, Creation of the Gods I , was worthy to have a high review. The director, Wu Er Shan brings a good Chinese mythology to the big screen. The storyline may be a bit fast, to have a better understanding, the audience can do some research before watching to get some brief understanding about the character.
Overall the experience was good. This movie we can feel it really made with full of sincerity. I am here waiting for the second part!!
Honestly, this was my first time in writing the review of the movies. This movie, Creation of the Gods I , was worthy to have a high review. The director, Wu Er Shan brings a good Chinese mythology to the big screen. The storyline may be a bit fast, to have a better understanding, the audience can do some research before watching to get some brief understanding about the character.
Overall the experience was good. This movie we can feel it really made with full of sincerity. I am here waiting for the second part!!
epic masterpiece highly recommend
jjiang_au18 September 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Pure 10/10 , highly recommend
Storyline:II Prince Yin Shou(kris Philips ) in Shang led the personally trained "zhi zi" (hostage )Brigade and Shang army against the rebel lord of Jizhou ,Suhu, but inadvertently lifted the seal of the demon fox in Xuanyuan tomb ,the demon fox attached to the daughter of Su Hu, Da Ji(Na ran) , Da Ji was brought back to ZhaoGe by Yin Shou to dedicate to his father and brother. At the dinner party, the grand prince , elder brother of Yin Shou ,was barking mad and killed his father with his sword. After that,Yin Shou succeeded to the throne, and the disaster forced him to make the decision of self-immolation and sacrifice to heaven. At the same time, Kunlun immortal Jiang Ziya(Huang Bo )with the seal of God list went down the mountain, looking for the king of the world in order to save life. In ZhaoGe, he sensed the cruelty of Yin Shou and fled in a hurry. On the other hand the prince Yin Jiao(Luke chen ),the son of Yin Shou ,who once regarded Yin Shou as the wise ruler in shang ,and the son of Xibo marquis , "zhizi" Jifa( Yosh Yu )also found the the private desire of the Shang king and weirdness of Da Ji. ZhaoGe is about to be filled with violence and bloodshed.......
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