This work by Zhang Yimou (for those of you who don't know, Chinese surnames are written and spoken before first names) is an excellent step towards the masterpiece that came next in his line of films. He begins to further establish his signature as a director through heavy use of symbolic color and specific camera techniques that convey meaning beautifully. Please see this film if you get a chance--it's well worth it, especially if you like Zhang and/or Chinese cinema in particular.