Sunday, May 8, 2011

MOVIE REVIEW … THE LOST BLADESMAN

 

the-lost-bladesman-movie-poster-2010-1020681086 The Lost Bladesman adds another string to Chinese cinema’s bow.  Whilst not perfect, it continues the trend of utilizing their popular form of martial arts within stories chronicling Chinese mythology.  Having much in common with 2001’s Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, it wastes no time in getting to the heart of its story and multitudes of action sequences.  Dazzling action scenes show Western film-makers still have much to learn from an industry revelling in creating new energetic spectacles.

In the time of the Eastern Han Dynasty, General Cao Cao (Jiang Wen) attempts to out- manoeuvre his rivals. Rival Liu Bei (Alex Fong) defends his realm at any cost.  Guan Yu (Donnie Yen), Bei’s brother, is captured by Cao Cao and forced to serve him.  Eventually freed, Guan Yu embarks on a quest to rejoin his brother and repel the dark forces enveloping his kingdom.

Based on the historical novel ‘Romance of the Three Kingdoms by Luo Guazhong, The Lost Bladesman says much about honor and trust.  Although Guan Yu’s captor, Cao Cao attempts to rule his kingdom via non-violent means which is at odds with Guan’s beliefs in brute strength.  Whilst both have the same aim in establishing order in their land, Cao’s pacifism versus Guan’s methods sees both lives at danger.  These elements are interestingly conveyed although there’s a feeling crucial moments have been edited out – there isn’t the true ‘epic feel’ one received from similar films.

Despite this lack of strong story, The Lost Bladesman’s action scenes are amazing.  Almost graceful and balletic in approach they often resemble the works of John Woo, Jackie Chan and Chow Yun Fat with each frenetic moment gloriously realized.  The multi-coloured production design and cinematography make them stand out effectively showing Guan Yu is a lethal fighting machine.  The Chinese scenery is always a pleasure to view and coupled with awe-inspiring fighting sequences generate memorable moments even if the episodic story doesn’t.

Chinese cinema has come a long way from the days of Bruce Lee and cheap Kung-Fu flicks. Films like The Lost Bladesman establish a new reputation for the industry.  Although disappointing in parts, it’s a history lesson most would be eager to take.

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Movie Review Rating 6 / 10

Movie Review by Patrick Moore

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Patrick Moore's Movie Review is an alternative look at current movie releases in Australia.

 

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