Movielogr
The Assassin (2015)
Directed by Hou Hsiao-hsien
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Overview
9th century China. 10-year-old general’s daughter Nie Yinniang is abducted by a nun who initiates her into the martial arts, transforming her into an exceptional assassin charged with eliminating cruel and corrupt local governors. One day, having failed in a task, she is sent back by her mistress to the land of her birth, with orders to kill the man to whom she was promised – a cousin who now leads the largest military region in North China. After 13 years of exile, the young woman must confront her parents, her memories and her long-repressed feelings.
Rated NR | Length 105 minutes
Actors
Shu Qi | Chang Chen | Nikki Hsieh | Sheu Fang-Yi | Ethan Juan | Xu Fan | Zuo Xiaoqing | Satoshi Tsumabuki | Ni Dahong | Shih Chun | Zhou Yun | Mei Fang | Jacques Picoux | Yong Mei | Zhen Yu Lei | Michael Chang Shao-Huai | Leon Dai | Jack Kao | Hsin-Yu Ling
Viewing History (seen 1 time)
| Date Viewed | Device | Format | Source | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11/07/2015 | Movie Screen | Digital | Theater | 8 stars |
| (Average) 8 stars |
Viewing Notes
So glad to finally see this having skipped it at Fantastic Fest and missing it at CIFF. Beautiful, meditative and unusually quiet. Every frame is a postcard. Seriously. I was more captivated by the cinematography and shot composition than the story. That’s likely where this movie will fail to connect with most audiences. And probably where most of the criticism is focused though I haven’t read any yet but definitely want to now that I’ve seen the film.
The story isn’t an issue being used to these kind of Eastern period pieces from both China and South Korea as of late. This story involves the Tang Dynasty and the assassin ordered to kill the emperor who happens to be her cousin. This is the central conflict of the movie with some additional mysticism and mystery for extra touches.
Mostly THE ASSASSIN is a lesson in composition; how each scene is balanced and when to go off-balance as the camera moves. It’s an amazing feat to witness especially for those with an eye for such things. I absolutely love it.
Also great to see Shu Qi in a strong yet restrained role. The lack of score using only the sounds of nature really adds to the somber mood throughout. Occasionally music is used to punctuate a scene but used sparingly. This film as a lot in common with The Grandmaster only with less action. A lot less action. I suppose that’s another criticism to expect but here it makes the action that much stronger like a burst of fire.
This is a movie that I’m already looking forward to viewing again. So much to soak up and appreciate.
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