Disappointing Chinese action drama. It's luscious in its costumes and set designs and cinematography but as a story it plods along, at times boring me, and to be honest I struggled to understand what was going on. I had to check Wikipedia later to find out the plot, it was poorly explained by the director and writers. Some decent action scenes and the acting is fine but it couldn't elevate this above mediocrity. For much better Chinese period action films, check out Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Hero and The House of Flying Daggers. They are fantastic. Best to give this a miss.
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The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar 2023
Quirky and enjoyable take on Roald Dahl's short story. Benedict Cumberbatch stars as the eponymous Henry Sugar and is ably supported by a fine cast that includes Ralph Fiennes, Richard Ayoade, Dev Patel and Ben Kingsley. Director Wes Anderson adds his unique touch to the visuals and storytelling and on the whole it works very well. Anderson doesn't lose sight of the moral messages within the story, but never preaches or falls into sentimentality. An entertaining, slightly eccentric and well crafted short film.
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The Next Three Days 2010
This one slipped under the radar when released. A surprisingly good thriller about a husband who plans to bust his wife out of prison. Paul Haggis directs well and keeps the tension and stakes high throughout. Inventive and engrossing but maybe just a little bit too long. Nice cameo from Liam Nesson.
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The Pianist 2002
The say that cats have nine lives. Well, I don't know how many Wladyslaw Szpilman used up during the German occupation of Warsaw. It's an incredible true story of one man's battle to survive against the odds. Rarely does a film top a book, but I think this is the case here. Polanski, whatever you think about him personally, is a very fine director and with The Pianist he produces a gem. It's remarkably powerful cinematic achievement. Adrien Brody, as…