In ninth century China, a rebel group called The Flying Daggers is constantly challenging government authority; agents Jin and Leo (Takeshi Kaneshiro, Andy Lau) are hoping a blind dancer (Zhang Ziyi) will take them to the groupās leaders. Director Zhang Yimou followed up Hero (2002) with another visually stunning martial arts adventure. A beautiful autumn saga with gorgeous colors and imaginatively staged fights; they completely dominate the film and the one in the forest is awe-inspiring. The romance is OK, but donāt expect much of a story; many ingredients are also awfully familiar.
2004-Hong Kong-China. 119 min. Color. Widescreen. Directed byĀ Zhang Yimou. Screenplay: Li Feng, Wang Bin, Zhang Yimou. PCinematography: Zhao Xiaoding. Cast: Takeshi Kaneshiro (Jin), Andy Lau (Leo), Zhang Ziyi (Mei), Song Dandan.
Trivia:Ā Original title:Ā Shi mian mai fu. Co-produced by Zhang. He reportedly wrote a part for Hong Kong star Anita Mui, but she died before filming began.
