I’d had been putting off watching Curse of the Golden Flower because some time ago I had foolishly read a review that was less than enthusiastic. What a mistake!
I loved it and for a number of reasons.
Visually, it’s spectacular. But I suppose that’s to be expected given that it was directed by Yimou Zhang (Raise the Red Lantern, Hero, House of Flying Daggers). And there are the action sequences, which may also have been expected given those latter two films (Hero, Flying Daggers), though the action is clearly not the focus here. It is a support element for character as well as being a plot device.
I think what I really loved about the film was the story. It begins slowly and builds, almost like peeling back an onion, revealing layers of conflict and complexity. As others have mentioned, it plays quite a bit like a Shakespearean tragedy with the intrigue and secrets and themes of power, revenge and incest.
Well, I don’t know about anyone else, but I love stories like this.
And the story is really the star here as it’s strength allows for the breathtaking sets and sequences and compelling (as well as brilliant) performances from an array of actors beginning with the film’s stars, Chow Yun Fat as Emperor Ping and Gong Li as Empress Phoenix.
I must admit, however, the last two minutes or so of the movie were a bit of a disappointment for me, though this had more to do with my expectations. I really was looking for what would be considered a standard, cookie cutter ending (a come-uppance for the Emperor).
However, that was a gut response. On reconsideration, the ending the film provides is both inevitable and proper. And that “come uppance” is there but more skillfully handled than my expectations were allowing for.
In fact, I’m anxious to watch the whole thing again.
What more could you ask of a film? A great story, great performances, great visuals – Curse of the Golden Flower has it all.
As for the action – when it does get started, and I’m thinking of the film’s apotheosis here, it is eye-popping.
And for drama, there is an incredible scene where family secrets are revealed.
I absolutely loved this movie. Four stars out of four. Highly recommended.
