(no subject)

[floatingleaf]

Just got back from seeing Sacrifice. WOW. It was... epic. In every sense of the word. I have said this before, and I will say it again: Chinese cinematography has no equal in the world when it comes to the art of storytelling. There is incredible power in the way each and every tiny detail contributes to the overall dramatic effect. It is all so perfectly balanced; never feels overdone, even during the most outrageously unrealistic swordfights with people throwing random somersaults and flying through the air.;) I honestly don't know how they do it. I mean, in a Hollywood flick it would (and does) look contrived; in a true Chinese epic, it is somehow profoundly symbolic. Or is it just me? There is something about the thoughtfulness and perfectionism of Chinese culture that resonates with me very deeply; nothing is ever meaningless or superficial, because nothing should ever be. Each blade of grass or each raindrop has a story to tell - if only people would listen. The Chinese know how to listen. Or it could be that their stories are always about REAL people, passionate and flawed, selfish and brave, faithful and hesitant, cruel and forgiving... No-one is ever black-and-white. So no matter how visually stunning and "otherworldly" the film may seem, you can easily identify with the characters and their struggles. Which is possibly THE distinctive mark of all really good stories. Sorely lacking in many Holywood productions, imo.

And that's the end of my penetrating insights for tonight.:P

Comments

[samtyr.livejournal.com]

Thanks for the suggestion. :) ::makes note::

[floatingleaf.livejournal.com]

You're welcome.:)