The Chinese have been making some exquisite films lately and this is one of them. Artistic freedom is ipso facto good. And China is becoming globalized -- they have multiple KFCs and a Delifrance in Shanghai. Coca-cola is not only a carminative but it's liberating too, and surprisingly affordable. This movie is kind of slow going, but it's worth it. The compositions are masterly and all the iconography meticulously ordered. One yearns for big red paper lanterns after watching this. And Gong Li! Her face approaches female perfection. Even that slight inborn pout is endearing. She's a good actress too. All the characters give credible performances. It's a good movie, a pleasure to watch, in all respects. Four wives. I wonder how you can get to be a millionaire in 1920s China.
Review of Raise the Red Lantern
