Phonology

    When a film's press raises your expectations as high as Hero 's does, one would expect to be disappointed. I've been looking forward to this film for too long. I resisted getting an imported DVD, because I knew that the cinematography was designed for the big screen. So I waited, counted down and at last I've seen this masterpiece. And it didn't disappoint me in the slightest.

 

    The plot and even the fighting are secondary to the look of the film, beautifully composed in every shot. There's a lot to pick apart, whether that be the stilted dialogue, the political undertones (which could be analysed any which way you desire), or even the set piece fights. However, the outstanding beauty of the film was enough to override any awkwardness for me. Jet Li's assassin, Nameless, battles his way through the piece, his intent gaze and stillness providing a focus for the plot. However, Tony Leung and Maggie Cheung, two of Hong Kong's finest actors serve as a dramatic centrepiece and provide the most touching of moments despite the restricted language provided in the dialogue.



    Whether you like epic drama, art house movies, blockbusters or kung fu, Hero is most certainly worth a visit to the cinema.