Dark Feathers: Dance of the Geisha

Love this unique and original movie. One would have never imagined how the movie can combine ballroom dancing, Japanese Samurai culture, and murders into the same plot but when it happens - it's refreshing to see because you really don't know what to expect. The leading ladies - Kate (Crystal J. Huang) and Amelia (Dancing with the Stars pro Karina Smirnoff) are sensational in acting and beautiful in dancing. Love the cello music as well! Now - I'm still trying to figure out the meaning of ending - if anyone figures it out - please comment. I'll likely to watch a 2nd time to piece it together :)

As someone who's familiar with both Asian and Western cinema, this movie was incredibly disappointing. I, an American, watched it with a friend from mainland China, and neither of us could follow most of what was happening. The lead actress shows absolutely no emotion throughout the entire film-honestly, a robot could have played her role, and you wouldn't have noticed a difference. Yet, somehow, every character she meets falls head over heels for her. Why? I found myself laughing at the dialogue, but not in a good way. The same monotonous score plays over and over again, making it even more unbearable. Easily one of the worst films I've ever endured.

This movie has a complicated plot with several twists. But beyond the surface, we all want to be understood, loved or accepted by a higher power. Dark Feathers is more than a fancy symbol, it is the true essence of human nature. I think if you are attracted by other people, you are more likely is felling love with yourself. We think we cannot help to love another person more than anything, but in the fact, if you find love in your heart and truly accept yourself, then it is hard for you to be lost by beauty or beast. There is misery of why the dancing parters are all falling in love with the main role, no matter they are men or women. That's the part of this movie to me is a little bit beyond my understanding and knowledge about Geisha.

This is a movie that proves that indie films work. I watched it on Amazon last night and truly enjoyed it. It is a unique story of oriental mystery power told in an engaging way. I found the characters compelling and the plots interesting. The Kate character was multidimensional and complex, unlike most of the oriental characters in Hollywood blockbusters. Love and lust, jealousy and curiosity -- it seems like a warning to never be lost in these emotions. My only complaint would be the fact that some of the fight scenes and sex scenes were not fully carried out. I suppose it was for the sake of keeping it PG 13. But all in all, a fun experience.

Great use of lighting, camera movement, and excellent use of camera angle and lenses. The director masterfully employs these elements to create a visually stunning and immersive experience. Each scene is meticulously crafted, with lighting that enhances the mood and atmosphere, whether it's the soft, warm glow of an intimate moment or the harsh, stark brightness of a tense confrontation. Camera movement is fluid and purposeful, guiding the audience's eye and drawing them deeper into the narrative.

The dynamic use of camera angles and lenses not only adds visual interest but also serves to underscore the emotional and thematic undertones of the story. Wide-angle shots create a sense of grandeur and scope, while close-ups capture the nuanced performances of the actors, conveying their inner turmoil and subtle expressions with remarkable clarity. The thoughtful composition of each frame, combined with the skillful use of depth of field, allows for a rich, layered visual storytelling that complements the film's intricate plot and character development.