While the color red maybe a usual symbol for strength, power and dominance, in this film, it meant sacrifice and a yearning for a true found love and affection.
Zhang Ziyi delivers a powerful portrayal of the intriguing and beguiling Empress Wan. A woman scorned as life had not been generous to her; she loves a man from afar and is forced, from a very young age, to be with selfish emperors. Daniel Wu examines a meditative and broken prince. What would be more devastating than a love lost to your very own father?
Zhou Xun’s character, Qing Nu, offers an unfaltering love to the prince unable to open his heart. In the center of this tumultuous tale is the tragedy that awaits them all that enfolds them when the proud king orders a feast in celebration of his conceived power.
When the Banquet has been set to bring all the characters together, each of them has a goal in mind which will ultimately dictate their lives. Will love’s end justify the means?
This contemplative film features alongside its bittersweet tale an elegantly choreographed wu xia in its thoughtful combinations of grace and blood. The production set is very mindful to detail. As for the cinematography, it was beautiful. Almost every frame has been conceived to be exquisite as still shots. In effect, the movie boasts an unforgettable opacity.
In the end, the motion picture evokes a lingering emotion. And sympathy for the silken red dominating the screen, a realization of when to give up for power, and how we must be stronger for love.
Feng Xiaogang creates an epic masterpiece that is akin to a stage play, striking in its pace, and simple in the raw performances of its characters.
