I'm not sure when it's hitting the big screen here in the U.S. but I would highly recommend checking out "Hero" with Jet Li, Zhang Ziyi and incredible cinematography by Chris Doyle (Who is famous for DP'ing most of Wong Kar-Wai's films). The story is sort of standard martial arts faire but it sure is something to look at.

Nota "My posts are the key to understanding my swordplay" Mono

Yes! One of the best movies in the history of movies!

It was suppose to be released in America back around the time of Crouching Tiger....but somehow things went wrong...who knows..and it didn't make it big. In fact, now that I think about it, it might have actually been in super unadvertised limited released in the states.

Either way, "Hero" goes way above and beyond what a drama/action/epic/adventure/romance movie should be. The action is sometimes better than MATRIX, the story and drama are up there with MAGNOLIA (or the sad/moving good drama movie of your choice) even with subtitles!) and the art direction/cinematography can't really be compared to anything else because they're on a whole different level in terms of style and originality.

If only the commentary was in English.

where did you see it if its not here in the states yet?

I met a guy who, like many other retail business people, sells international DVDS. However, the great thing in this situation is that he ONLY sells movies he likes. I trusted his opinion, bought like 5 and though I still have yet to watch his #1 reccomendation "PING PONG," HERO was by far the best of the collection.

Actually, a lot of the movies he reccomended (Shaolin Soccer, Ichi the Killer, The Returner) have since been picked up by American studios for release. I think he's the DVD oracle.

LOL!! I still have "Ping-pong" unwatched and collecting dust on my shelves as well. With 'Hero', I also saw an imported version on DVD, but I assume it'll be hitting theaters here soon because it got it's write-up in American Cinematographer a month or two back. I know not how distribution of foreign films works.

Nota "Has more un-watched movies than he'd care to admit" Mono

Saw it after the write up in AC. Wasnt too crazy about the story, but geezze what a gorgeous film!!

"Pain is temporary, Film is forever"-Peter Jackson

"Art only does so much, and sometimes it doesn't even pay the bills!"-AFC President

http://www.ErwinBrothers.com

Ive seen it big screen cinema in switzerland last spring

it kicks ass. well the story is...well chinese (right?) I guess I have to understand more of the culture to fully appreciate it...but a great film nonetheless