A global sensation which made Zhang Yimou a household name in the West, Hero features a galaxy of Hong Kong and Mainland Chinese star names (Jet Li, Tony Leung, Maggie Cheung, Zhang Ziyi, Donnie Yen), and is a boundary pushing wuxia extravaganza, a richly romantic vision of history, and a somewhat controversial blockbuster.

During the ancient Warring States period a nameless man (Li) is summoned to the court of the King of Qin after he claims to have defeated three legendary assassins. What ensues is a contest of wits and ideological debate, as the King’s suspicions gradually rise.

Hero is a film of immense beauty and gravity defying martial arts choreography. Cinematographer Christopher Doyle (known for his work with Wong Kar-wai) famously structured the film into four visually defined sections, designed to strongly evoke the four seasons. Meanwhile, Tan Dun’s swooning score accentuates the love triangle between Leung, Cheung, and Zhang Ziyi’s characters. Hero remains incredibly exciting, surprisingly moving, and, to this day, still leaves audiences debating the surprising denouement.

Our screening on Saturday 17 August was introduced by Maurizio Marinelli (UCL).

Cast:
Jet Li, Tony Leung Chiu-wai, Maggie Cheung, Donnie Yen, Zhang Ziyi