House of Flying Daggers

views updated

House of Flying Daggers ★★★ Shimian Maifu 2004

Zhang continues his interest in swordplay and chivalry following 2002's “Hero.” Set in 859 A.D., during a period of unrest in the Tang Dynasty, the film follows three main characters. Police captains Leo (Lau) and Jin (Kaneshiro) are assigned to uncover the leader of the Flying Daggers, an anti-government rebel group. An elaborate set piece introduces beautiful blind dancer Mei (Zhang), the apex of the triangle. Jin poses as a sympathizer and hopes Mei will lead him to the rebel headquarters but doesn't expect to fall in love with her. A bamboo forest scene is among the film's action highlights. Mandarin with subtitles. Film is dedicated to actress Anita Mui who died from cancer before filming her role. 120m/C VHS, DVD, Blu-ray Disc, UMD . CH HK Takeshi Kaneshiro, Andy Lau, Zhang Ziyi, Song Dandan; D: Yimou Zhang; W: Yimou Zhang, Feng Li, Bin Wang; C: Xiaoding Zhao; M: Shingeru Umebayashi.