La Cité interdite

Théâtre de chambre dans des décors colorés, entrecoupé de scènes de combat de masse. Le théâtre ne fonctionne pas en raison d'une trop grande distance par rapport aux personnages et d'une vacuité émotionnelle, les scènes de combat semblent trop artificielles. Un film aligné selon les règles, mais qui n'a pas d'impact émotionnel. Les ambitions d'être un grand épopée dramatique à la manière de Kurosawa sont évidentes... (29/09/2008)

This is a film that is just beautiful to look at. It's really enjoyable to watch, every moment of it. The composition and the attention to detail are absolutely incredible in places. And the use of yellow is incredible. And it even has a story! It's missing something, perhaps it's too aesthetic but otherwise devoid of emotions, yet it's still a beautiful spectacle. (03/04/2015)

Yun-Fat Chow and Li Gong as iconic rulers of the Tang Dynasty. Yimou Zhang directs this monstrous film as a demonstration of the best of what is possible in Chinese film studios. Maximum sets, maximum interiors, maximum costumes, maximum extras, and maximum details as far as the eye can see. And yet the story simply demonstrates a classic deadly family drama where everyone is both guilty and victimized. Curse of the Golden Flower is one of the few fashionable Eastern imports I'm willing to turn a blind eye to and blend in with every piece of gold embroidery. (23/06/2011)