Dark Feathers: Dance of the Geisha

Love this unique and original movie. One would have never imagined how the movie can combine ballroom dancing, Japanese Samurai culture, and murders into the same plot but when it happens - it's refreshing to see because you really don't know what to expect. The leading ladies - Kate (Crystal J. Huang) and Amelia (Dancing with the Stars pro Karina Smirnoff) are sensational in acting and beautiful in dancing. Love the cello music as well! Now - I'm still trying to figure out the meaning of ending - if anyone figures it out - please comment. I'll likely to watch a 2nd time to piece it together :)

As someone who's familiar with both Asian and Western cinema, this movie was incredibly disappointing. I, an American, watched it with a friend from mainland China, and neither of us could follow most of what was happening. The lead actress shows absolutely no emotion throughout the entire film-honestly, a robot could have played her role, and you wouldn't have noticed a difference. Yet, somehow, every character she meets falls head over heels for her. Why? I found myself laughing at the dialogue, but not in a good way. The same monotonous score plays over and over again, making it even more unbearable. Easily one of the worst films I've ever endured.

I really appreciate the movie "Black Feathers" for the great time it gave me. It's not often that I get to watch a drama movie in the cinema, especially not a Hollywood blockbuster. The story is amazing, and it's a topic I really like. The main actress and director, Ms. Huang, is so elegant and beautiful. It was a fantastic movie experience! I would say "Dark Feathers" completed very well for a low budget production. Let's give props to every staffer who's put in hard work.

I really appreciate the movie "Black Feathers" for the great time it gave me. It's not often that I get to watch a drama movie in the cinema, especially not a Hollywood blockbuster. The story is amazing, and it's a topic I really like. The main actress and director, Ms. Huang, is so elegant and beautiful. It was a fantastic movie experience! I would say "Dark Feathers" completed very well for a low budget production. Let's give props to every staffer who's put in hard work.

Great use of lighting, camera movement, and excellent use of camera angle and lenses. The director masterfully employs these elements to create a visually stunning and immersive experience. Each scene is meticulously crafted, with lighting that enhances the mood and atmosphere, whether it's the soft, warm glow of an intimate moment or the harsh, stark brightness of a tense confrontation. Camera movement is fluid and purposeful, guiding the audience's eye and drawing them deeper into the narrative.

The dynamic use of camera angles and lenses not only adds visual interest but also serves to underscore the emotional and thematic undertones of the story. Wide-angle shots create a sense of grandeur and scope, while close-ups capture the nuanced performances of the actors, conveying their inner turmoil and subtle expressions with remarkable clarity. The thoughtful composition of each frame, combined with the skillful use of depth of field, allows for a rich, layered visual storytelling that complements the film's intricate plot and character development.

The cinematography is great. There are lovely scenes in beautiful settings ranging from Northern California to traditional Japanese temples. There is an interesting mix of Asian and Western cultures. The traditional Japanese outfits and ceremonies open the window to another culture. This is contrasted with equally beautiful Western dance scenes. The dancers move with such grace and athleticism! They are truly skilled dancers. The lead actress Crystal Huang is beautiful and enigmatic as befits her role as a mysterious temptress .

The plot however is difficult to follow at times and the viewer is left with questions about the underlying relationships and histories between some of the characters.