Watching Dragon, Hidden Growler

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Many Chinese and East Asian films are very successful due to their fantastic creativity and innovation.

Here are a selection that deserve your attention.

This article was also featured in Chinatown - The Magazine.

Rawle Austin presents...

2046

2046 is the latest film by acclaimed Hong Kong director Wong Kar Wai. Set in late – 1960’s Hong Kong. It follows the life and exploits of Chow Mo Wan (played by Tony Leung Chiu - Wai). He is a journalist with a playboy lifestyle and is currently writing fictional stories. One such story is a science fiction tale about a high tech train that carries people to the year 2046 to reclaim their lost memories.

Chow Mo Wan imagines people who he has met in real life and places them in the context of this wild science fiction story, making for some interesting scenes.

It all fits together perfectly and the film is seamless in its direction making a satisfying experience.

2046 continues the story of Chow Mo Wan (Tony Leung) from the film 'In the mood for love', a few years after his ephemeral affair with Maggie Cheung's character Su Li-Zhen.

2046 is very atmospheric and utterly engrossing. Superb performances all round this film really hits the emotions in a subtle way and you do find yourself caring for all the characters.

Starring some of the heavyweights in current Chinese cinema, 2046 never fails to entertain.

Gong Li, Faye Wong and Carina Lau Ka – Ling all breathe life into this movie with their individual characters but for me the runaway star had to be Zhang ZiYi.

She literally stole every scene she was in and showed her acting versatility to great effect.

She is undoubtedly a giant on the screen and her star will continue to rise and rise. Playing opposite to Tony Leung, these two actors have a great on – screen chemistry providing many memorable moments. Flaws and all, the characters are like old friends and you are very comfortable in their presence. Director’s quote – “ There is a need in all of us to have a place to hide or store certain memories, thoughts, impulses, hopes and dreams.

These are part of our lives that we can’t resolve or best not act upon but at the same time we are afraid to jettison them.

For some, this is a physical place for others, it is a mental space, and for a few it is neither. 2046 is a project that began some time ago.

The journey to complete the film has been eventful. It has taken a long time to get there. Like the memory we treasure, it is difficult to leave behind.”

Director Wong Kar Wai has succeeded in bringing to the screen a gem of a picture.

I have to mention the cinematography and the soundtrack (film score) for particular excellence in creating the mood of the film but I can’t forget the entire cast and film crew for coming together and collectively producing a masterpiece.

You must see it!

Running time: 129 mins, Certificate 12

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Check out Dianying.com for an extensive database of Chinese films.

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