Ying

I just ended up seeing this movie without any expectations, The movie was great, The cinematography was well done , visually stunning and properly executed, The movie was a bit lengthy but slowly picked up the pace, definitely recommended...

I just watched this movie a few hours ago and i am still dizzy. The lack of background colors and the almost constant rain add to the complex intrigue. Until the end, one does not know where the director will take us. It is beautifully crafted, the action is realistic, the acting is perfect. This is another "Chef d'oeuvre" from Zhang Yimou. It will be one of these few movies which I shall watch again.. and again, with the same pleasure

I've always loved foreign cinema, especially the Asian culture; it's so diverse and unique that one could spend years and years studying and still barely scratch the surface. The history is vast and rich, and the films of Asian cinema always bring that to light. There's something about the craftmanship of such films that just feels so much more visceral and rewarding as compared to most American movies. And with Shadow we find director Zhang Yimou ("Hero", "The Great Wall") at his truest form, giving us his most visually satisfying, narratively complex, and action packed movie to date. The film does have a slow start, building the world that we're in and the characters and what their motives are. It's a layered narrative that requires a good bit of attention, each character giving meaning to the scene. Although the pacing is a tad off, it's always an absorbing watch due to the gorgeous cinematography, from the sweeping landscapes to the dense foggy atmosphere this movie just looks phenomenal. I found myself wanting the biggest screen possible to watch such a spectacle. There's a scene when opposing soldiers use their umbrella swords and twirl their way down a cobblestone street all the while firing their crossbows at the enemy, it's bonkers but it's so stylish and inventive. I thought I'd seen it all by now, but Shadow only goes to show there's probably a lot more to see. Overall Shadow is an exceptionally well made martial arts film, one that uses slow burn to a wonderful effect, never distancing itself from the viewer, but still able to build a strong hero and villain organically.

Shadow is a visually-stunning film. The plot was only modestly-interesting, but the breathtaking visuals and excellent use of music kept every moment of this film engaging. The action scenes are innovative. While technically a color film, most of the film looks black and white, except for the blood. Filming in the constant rain must have been unpleasant, but it contributes greatly the the amazing visual experience.

Right off the bat, I'll mention the main negative of the movie (as this will probably be the first thing you will encounter).

The beginning is so slow and uninteresting, that you'll be tempted to switch off after the first 30 minutes. And you'll be forgiven for doing so, due to the very limited nature of the characters and setting. And as bizarre this may sound, one of the film's main strengths -- the dull colours / visuals -- may contribute to your boredom. And that's because of the movie's chosen colour scheme (dark grey vs light grey).

But if you can get over this hurdle (and its not easy, I admit) and appreciate how beautiful they movie actually looks, you'll soon be rewarded with a middle and end that eventually picks up in excitement, plot and action.

If you're a fan of Chinese cinema and its ancient themes, you'll like this. The way its shot, the editing, the action and the visuals....are stunning at times. And you may appreciate it if you can get over the very boring beginning.