Lavish tapestry of drama

At the beginning of his career, Zhang Yimou was lauded as one of the most dynamic of the so-called Fifth Generation of Chinese filmmakers. His films from that period were also politically charged – his acknowledged masterpiece, Raise the Red Lantern, for example, was banned for a time in China. Things have changed in China since those days, and Zhang has gone on to become associated with lavish martial arts dramas like House of Flying Daggers and Hero. But with Curse of the Golden Flower, he boldly blends the two in a work of both stunning beauty and powerful statement.

This sumptuous film takes a very different tack from Hero, suggesting that Zhang is prepared to take more risks artistically than was the case even a couple of years ago. He retains a magnificent eye for detail, and his trademark use of contrasting colours only adds to the film’s luxurious feel. He has however blended his narrative with the martial arts elements rather more skilfully than in either Hero or House of Flying Daggers, rivalling even the accepted benchmark of the genre, Ang Lee’s Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon.

The story (which I hasten to add, is not – and I suspect is not intended to be – historically accurate) begins in 10th Century China. In a magnificent palace, Empress Phoenix (Gong Li) waits for her husband Emperor Ping (Chow Yun Fat) to return. Her strength seems to be failing, so she is dutifully taking the medicine prescribed by her husband and prepared by the royal alchemist (Ni Dahong). But she is also consoling herself via an affair with her stepson, Crown Prince Wan (Liu Ye). The Emperor’s return with his second son, Prince Jai (Jay Chou) however is rather earlier than expected, throwing the royal house into some disarray. Preparations are in full swing for the Chrysanthemum Festival, and the Empress seems pre-occupied with stitching the golden flowers to adorn imperial garments for the event. But her work hides a darker motive

Zhang’s skilful blend of almost Shakespearean palace intrigue with martial arts and contemporary politics is a joy to behold. Indeed, the Shakespeare comparison is accentuated by the fact that the film is based in part on a Chinese play. Its lavish costuming and staging is lovingly captured by Xioading Zhao’s exquisite cinematography.

The cast brings together some of China’s best known actors. Both Chow Yun Fat and Gong Li, both recently seen in American movies, return to their homeland to appear here. They’re joined by Jay Chou, Junjie Qin and a host of China’s most respected actors. Perhaps understandably, the acting style is generally overstated. This works reasonably well for the most part, although it also makes for a few awkward moments, particularly towards the end. Given the seemingly imposed acting style, the performances may seem rather arch, but their intensity cannot be denied. That’s especially so in the case of Gong Li, who mesmerises every time she’s on screen.

Curse of the Golden Flower is as lavish a film as you’re likely to see this year. But for all its finery, there’s a depth to the material and a bravery in its approach that make it a cut above. This is sure to be a must-see for anyone with even a remote interest in Asian cinema; and highly recommended for everyone else.

David Edwards

Send us your feedback on this article or anything else in The Blurb

Advertise with us | About us |Our privacy policy

Curse of the Golden Flower

Our rating:

Director: Zhang Yimou
Cast: Chow Yun Fat, Gong Li, Ni Dahong, Jay Chou and Lui Ye
Release: 25 April, 2007
Rated: MA

Subscribe
to our monthly e-newsletter

Check us out on

Subscribe to our blog to keep
up to date on the latest news and reviews
at The Blurb