Today’s quick review: Curse of the Golden Flower. In the late Tang Dynasty, the Royal Family of China prepares for an extravagant public ceremony. On the eve of the ceremony, the Empress (Gong Li) learns that her husband, the Emperor (Chow Yun-Fat), is having her poisoned. With no other option, she turns to Prince Jai (Jay Chou) for help. Meanwhile, Prince Wan (Liu Ye) pursues a risky affair with the Empress’ handmaid Chan (Li Man).
Curse of the Golden Flower is a Chinese martial arts drama from director Zhang Yimou. The movie follows the intrigue within the Royal Family as the Emperor attempts to kill his wife, his wife plots against him in return, and the Princes jockey for their father’s favor. Curse of the Golden Flower couples an ornate visual style with a tragic tone and a plot that’s full of twists and turns. The film is capped off by a dash of martial arts action.
Curse of the Golden Flower is most notable for its visuals. The film goes all-in on its sets and costumes. Everything is done in intricate detail, and the predominantly gold color scheme gives the film a distinct visual identity. Curse of the Golden Flower also goes to great lengths to replicate the excess of the Emperor’s palace. The sheer number of servants involved in the palace’s daily rituals contributes greatly to the film’s atmosphere.
Against this backdrop, Curse of the Golden Flower tells a fairly engaging tale of power and betrayal. The machinations of the Emperor, the quiet endurance of the Empress, and the secrets surrounding Priince Wan’s affair give the movie plenty of drama to work with. However, the courtly intrigue comes with a price: a tragic tone, a decreased focus on the film’s action, and a mixed payoff to some promising plot threads.
Curse of the Golden Flower is a worthy choice for fans of the more dramatic side of the martial arts genre. Though not as action-heavy as some of its competition, the combination of gorgeous visuals and an engaging plot make it a worthwhile watch. Those looking for pure action or more upbeat story should look elsewhere. For another striking martial arts drama from the same director, try Hero, House of Flying Daggers, or Shadow.
7.0 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it the same for impressive visuals and a solid plot.