Xi chu bawang

I don't believe this film was ever released in the US-- a pity. It's just the stuff that western junkies of Chinese history love: a semi-bio pic from ancient China full of treachery, deceit, love, lust, and all the elements that make lovers of drama smile.

Gong Li as Lu Zhi gets another chance to shine in a deliciously would-be villainess role. It's not that she's heartless, she just feels the need to protect her turf. When that turf is unwittingly encroached upon by the saintly Rosamund Kwan (in one of her best roles), Gong Li gets down and dirty to settle the score. Taking her cue from the old adage, "keep your friends close and your enemies closer", Gong Li befriends her oblivious and naive rival, Lady Yu, with every intention of destroying her. But that's not all...

Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned and Gong Li is determined that no one will get the best of her in this game of love and politics-- not even her own lover or his rival. Pitting hearts against hearts, friendships against friendships, allies against allies, Lu Zhi's character realizes ambition combined with revenge may be the most powerful force on the face of the earth. It might even be able to change history.

This movie has something for everyone: battles, triumphant parades, treachery and moments of romance. Most of all, there is some fine acting and an interesting plot full of twists and turns. It may not be the best epic ever made, but it is definitely worth a look. It is a bit long in run time, but lovers of Gong Li and Chinese history should find many scenes to be very enjoyable watching. Find it if you can.