The is the first Hark Tsui film I've seen (but not the first Chinese film). It's a great film - with a Harry Potter title.
The mix of reality and fantasy is just right. The fight scenes are beautifully choreographed, and the special effects are visually stunning.
(The story gives a plausible explanation for spontaneous human combustion.) Tony Leung gets first billing in the credits, but he's really the #2 (or #3) character in the story. Detective Dee is masterfully played by Andy Lau. All the actors and actresses give first-rate performances.
The story is set around the real-life Empress Wu, just before she ascends the throne. (I have to wonder why anybody would want to be Empress - you have to wear those funny hats.) Despite the name, Carina Lau (Empress Wu) is married to Tony Leung.
I hope someone who speaks Cantonese (or is it Mandarin?) can comment on the subtitles. "Chaplain", for instance, doesn't seem right.
The mix of reality and fantasy is just right. The fight scenes are beautifully choreographed, and the special effects are visually stunning.
(The story gives a plausible explanation for spontaneous human combustion.) Tony Leung gets first billing in the credits, but he's really the #2 (or #3) character in the story. Detective Dee is masterfully played by Andy Lau. All the actors and actresses give first-rate performances.
The story is set around the real-life Empress Wu, just before she ascends the throne. (I have to wonder why anybody would want to be Empress - you have to wear those funny hats.) Despite the name, Carina Lau (Empress Wu) is married to Tony Leung.
I hope someone who speaks Cantonese (or is it Mandarin?) can comment on the subtitles. "Chaplain", for instance, doesn't seem right.