Review of Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon

Introduction

Usually, I wouldn`t even contemplate watching a movie coming out of Asia, let alone buying one. But being the sheep I am, I gave into the mass hype "Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon" generated (mostly from on-line critics) and purchased the DVD upon release.

The cover-art boasts numerous accolades the movie has picked up, including four Oscars, such as best foreign film & cinematography, not to mention forty other awards from less-lucrative organizations. Praise was also heaped upon director Ang lee & the cast. Lee was labeled best director at the BAFTA awards after missing out at the Oscars, while new stars were born in Chow Yun-Fat, Zhang Ziyi & Michelle Yeoh as they were credited as the best leading cast in a movie of 2000.

Expectations are high, I repeat, expectations are high.

From what I understand, Crouching Tiger is one of those few discs that are pretty much identical to all its region counterparts. The only real notable difference being the fact that each region has its own unique addition in terms of features (UK release lacks Coco-Lee`s music video, but has an exclusive behind-the-scenes featurette). All versions acquire multiple language and sub-title choices, as many people will have different preferences while watching this movie.

So, does it live up to the hype? And more importantly, does the disc?

Here`s what I know.

Video

Presented in 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen, I have mixed feelings about the image quality. It appears very dusty and a little light in contrast throughout the entire duration. At first I thought it was my TV, but to my surprise manipulating the picture did nothing to improve the problem. I really don`t think Columbia have done too much justice to what is a beautifully illustrated movie, and it p***es me right off. Although, that`s not to say it`s not watchable, I just wouldn`t use this as a demo disc to showcase modern-day DVDs, that`s all. I`ve seen worse, but I`ve also seen a lot better.

On a lighter note, there`s nothing more enjoyable (and amusing) than watching the Chinese play out their legendary myths and defy the laws of gravity. This of course leads to some extremely over-elaborate fight scenes that are a joy to watch and easily are the best kung-fu antics I`ve ever seen in a modern day movie.

Audio

Presented in Dolby Digital 5.1 (both Mandarin & English tracks), the audio quality in Crouching Tiger is sublime.

All of the channels in the soundtrack are full and powerful. I found that both rear and front speakers are very detailed and accurate. Occasionally the audio dubbing in martial arts films can feel hollow and tacked on, not so here.

Those of you lucky enough to entertain a sub will be delighted with the results. Deep booming thuds and cavernous impacts add another dimension to the fight sequences. Crouching Tiger sounds great.

Features

No shortage of features here, and they`re not that bad at all.

First off we have the "Hidden Dragon" featuretee, which consists of numerous interviews with the leading cast and director, as well as an in-depth look at how some of the breath-taking stunts were performed in the film. It would have been nice to have seen Chow Yun-Fat featured a little more frequently, but it`s still well worth the viewing.

Secondly (and one of my favourites), is a lengthy conversation with Michelle Yeoh, and what an informative one it is. From beginning to end, a compelling look into what was involved during the shooting of Crouching Tiger is given. She really is an intelligent person and clearly knows what she`s talking about, I look forward to seeing her in more Hollywood projects.

The best feature on the disc has to be the various languages and sub-titles on offer. Many people will prefer different languages, but I thought the dialogue was better with the dubbed English option, although the mandarin (with English sub-titles) revealed a lot more in terms of the plot, as the characters choice of words are sufficiently different.

These were the bulk features of the disc, there`s an audio commentary which I haven`t listened to yet, and the usual theatrical trailers & filmographies etc. Not a bad attempt, but not much worthy of more than one viewing.

Conclusion

I saw this film based on much of the hype it received. Had it not gotten all of the Oscar nominations and critical acclaim, I probably would have taken to the film a lot better. I believe it`s an important break-through in Asian movies, but just a little over-rated in my book.

The camera work, the locations, and the choreography are all outstanding. While many folks will say the fighting scenes are "Matrix" rip-offs, I disagree. It`s important for viewers to realize that in addition to being a romance and a martial arts film, it is also a FANTASY.

Where the movie fell flat was the storyline (yes there was one), and even Michelle Yeoh`s outstanding acting job as Shu Lien could not carry it. The remaining characters were pretty shallow, especially Jen (Ziyi Zhang), a self-absorbed brat. Chow Yun-Fat`s character, Li Mu Bai, is rather cliche as a warrior shunning retirement for one more mission, to avenge his master`s murder. But regardless, the actors did the best they could and portrayed the characters well.

The DVD is impressive, and stacks enough extras for any avid fan, it`s a shame the image quality has let this disc down.

This film is not for everyone, clearly. You have to enjoy martial arts movies to like this one at all. Don`t expect an emotional romance or a real moral to the story.

And for the record, although it`s a very creditable movie and DVD, Crouching Tiger has done nothing to enhance my opinion on foreign films.