1
27
VOTES
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
The Chinese Influence: Set in ancient China, this epic martial arts film delves into the honor, love, and destinies of its characters, beautifully portraying Chinese philosophies and the legendary Wudang Mountains. The breathtaking fight scenes and stunning visuals are steeped in traditional Chinese martial arts, making it a captivating journey through China's cultural heritage. The Premise:
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is an epic martial arts film that takes viewers on a journey through ancient China. The story revolves around two warriors, stoic Li Mu Bai (Chow Yun-Fat) and fiery Yu Shu Lien (Michelle Yeoh), as they cross paths with a mysterious young aristocrat named Jen Yu (Zhang Ziyi). A stolen sword and dangerous secrets set the stage for a grand adventure filled with breathtaking fight scenes and stunning visuals. Directed by Ang Lee and winning four Academy Awards, including Best Foreign Language Film, this movie masterfully blends action, romance, and Eastern philosophy in a captivating tale of honor, love, and destiny.
27 votes
- #79 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
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2
12
VOTES
The Last Emperor
The Chinese Influence: This biographical drama takes audiences through the life of Puyi, the last emperor of China, profoundly depicting the nation's transition from imperial rule to republicanism and beyond. The movie's intricate sets, traditional costumes, and historical accuracy provide a comprehensive visual experience of Chinese royal heritage and the political shifts that reshaped the country. The Premise:
The Last Emperor, a biographical drama, unveils the life of Puyi (John Lone), the final monarch of China. Born in Beijing's Forbidden City, Puyi ascends to the throne at age two but is ousted during the Xinhai Revolution. Directed by Bernardo Bertolucci, the film captures Puyi's tumultuous reign and subsequent downfall, from lofty emperor to humble gardener. Joan Chen portrays Wanrong, his Empress, with Peter O'Toole as Reginald Johnston, his tutor. The movie earned nine Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Director - a testament to its cinematic brilliance.
12 votes
MoreThe Last Emperor
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3
20
VOTES
Empire of the Sun
The Chinese Influence: Against the backdrop of World War II, this film depicts the impact of the Japanese invasion on Shanghai, bringing to life the historical turbulence and the resilience of the Chinese people. The narrative follows a British boy's survival journey, offering a poignant view of wartime China and its cultural intersections. The Premise:
Set amidst the turmoil of World War II, Empire of the Sun is a captivating tale of survival and resilience. The film features young Jim 'Jamie' Graham (Christian Bale in an early role), a British boy living in Shanghai, who becomes separated from his parents when Japan invades China. Struggling to survive in an alien land, Jamie faces the harsh realities of war, imprisonment in internment camps, and the loss of innocence. Directed by Steven Spielberg and based on J.G. Ballard's semi-autobiographical novel, this movie is a unique fusion of history and drama that explores human endurance against overwhelming odds. Despite not winning any major awards, Empire of the Sun remains an important entry in Spielberg's filmography for its compelling narrative and Bale's memorable performance.
20 votes
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4
19
VOTES
Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom
The Chinese Influence: Though the majority of this film is set in India, the early scenes in Shanghai offer a glimpse into the city's 1930s nightlife and its cosmopolitan cultural milieu. The chaotic escape from a nightclub showcases Shanghai’s historical significance as a hub of international intrigue and adventure. The Premise:
Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984) is a high-stakes action-adventure film, directed by Steven Spielberg. The title character, Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford), finds himself in India, where he's asked to find a mystical stone. Accompanied by Willie Scott (Kate Capshaw) and Short Round (Jonathan Ke Quan), Jones stumbles upon a secret cult committing enslavement and human sacrifices in the catacombs of an ancient palace. Amidst danger and dark magic, our hero confronts his adversaries head-on in a bid to stop their sinister plans. This movie won an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects.
19 votes
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5
26
VOTES
House of Flying Daggers
The Chinese Influence: Set during the Tang Dynasty, this visually stunning martial arts epic portrays the tension between a secret rebel group and the corrupt government, highlighting traditional Chinese values of loyalty and duty. The film features intricate combat choreography and lush landscapes, emphasizing the beauty and depth of Chinese culture. The Premise:
In the visually stunning martial-arts epic House of Flying Daggers, set in 9th century China, a secret rebel organization, known as the House of Flying Daggers, wages war against the corrupt government. Two local deputies, Jin (Takeshi Kaneshiro) and Leo (Andy Lau), are tasked with infiltrating this elusive group. Their mission takes an unexpected turn when they meet the blind dancer Mei (Zhang Ziyi), who is connected to the rebels. Amidst flourishing landscapes and breathtaking action sequences, the officers grapple with their duty to their rulers and their growing feelings for Mei. Directed by Zhang Yimou, this film was nominated for Best Cinematography at the 2005 Academy Awards.
26 votes
- #217 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- #35 of 99 onThe Best Movies Of 2004, Ranked
- #123 of 425 onThe Greatest Movies in World Cinema History
6
23
VOTES
Mulan
The Chinese Influence: This animated classic brings to life the legendary tale of Fa Mulan, who defies gender norms to protect her family and country, showcasing themes of honor, bravery, and filial piety deeply rooted in Chinese culture. The film’s vibrant animation captures the essence of ancient Chinese customs, clothing, and scenery. The Premise:
In the animated movie Mulan, Fa Mulan, voiced by Ming-Na Wen, takes center stage, breaking societal norms in a tale of courage and resilience. Set in ancient China, when Huns invade, Mulan's frail father (Soon-Tek Oh) is called to war. To protect him, she disguises herself as a man and goes in his place. Aided by her guardian dragon Mushu (Eddie Murphy), Mulan becomes an unlikely hero, earning honor for her family and proving that greatness can come from anyone. This film won several Annie awards, showcasing its technical prowess and narrative strength.
23 votes
