Red Cliff 2 (2009)

Country: China

Language: Mandarin

Actors: Tony Leung, Takeshi Kaneshiro, Zhang Fengyi, Chang Chen, Hu Jun, Lin Chi-Ling & Zhao Wei

Director: John Woo

I saw Red Cliff 1 last month, yet it was fresh in my memory once I started watching the second installment. I would have watched the movie(s) even if it was (were) one part and an hour and a half extra to sit. The production value is mind blowing and one feels that it is monies well spent by the producer.

Tony Leung, what can one tell about his man ? I’ve now become a great fan of his Zhou Yu (the character in this movie), but for how long ?? Tony Leung, for me is like a bottle of wine… You are taught the older the wine is the better it is. Likewise, the more of Tony Leung you watch the more you like him.

Zhang Fengyi does well as the antagonist. The experienced actor he is, he excels as Cao Cao. The ladies in the movie, Lin Chi –Ling & Zhao Wei are brilliant. If we have a winner of a movie then one needs to credit John Woo, the man at the helm,the father of this lovely epic movie.

The battle formation & strategy are practical tips for the gamers among us. The background music is something that needs very special mention. It makes the movie even more impactful.

Part 2 has more action compared to the first installment. For once it is not senseless action, blood & gore. The music, the unmatched visuals and some superb acting take this movie to a completely different level.

The climax is something that WOW’s us. I don’t have words to describe this movie other than very highly recommending this movie.

Amazing movie, a must watch.

Red Cliff 1 (2008)

Language: Mandarin

Actors: Tony Leung, Takeshi Kaneshiro, Zhang Fengyi, Chang Chen, Hu Jun, Lin Chi-ling & Zhao Wei

Director: John Woo

Any war based movie costs, the costs are even higher especially if that is a period subject. This one is a Period War Movie, it is based on the epic Battle Of Red Cliffs (208 – 209 AD). It chronicles the Han dynasty towards the end of their reign.

Amazing movie in terms of the production value, this is one the most expensive films made in Asia. And this movie grossed more than Titanic in mainland China. Which means the costs didn’t sink.

Due to the length of the story this movie was made in two parts, the second part was released in 2009. The movie has a very talented cast, one of the actors being the most talented Tony Leung. An amazingly multi-talented actor comparable to the best in business – yesterday, today and hopefully tomorrow. And he doesn’t disappoint you.

Overall this is a very good movie, with great background music, superb visuals thanks to the mindboggling production value and to top it all has a greatly talented ensemble cast.

Great watch, the moment I finished Part 1 the reflex wanted Part 2 to start. Such is the interest this movie creates.

I love it.

PS: The reason why I chose to watch this movie is thanks to G V Prakash Kumar and his plagiarized credit title tune from this movie for the rooster fight of Aadukalam.

Well done G V Prakash and Vetri Maaran, I wish you had at least doctored a bar or two of the original track to make this look / sound an original. May be you were short of time !!