The East is Red

Bizarre, bloody, and beautiful are just a few words to describe this Tsui Hark production, actually a deceptively titled sequel to his popular Swordsman series, which this time concentrates totally on Bridget Lin's Invincible Asia character from the second installment. The plot finds Asia, now presumed dead and regarded as a demon, teaming up with a stoic government official (Koo, played by Iron Monkey's Yu Rong Guang) in order to rid the world of the numerous Asia the Invincible impostors attempting to use her fame for their own gain. One such impostor, Snow (an icy performance from Chinese Ghost Story's Joey Wang), is a former lover of the supernaturally bisexual Asia (this film's themes of lesbianism have earned it a spot in many Gay and Lesbian film festivals, including Austin's), and wants desperately to rekindle that love, much to the chagrin of the heartless Asia. Toss in both the Spanish and Japanese armies, spectacular cinematography, lots of flying kung fu, and a lush soundtrack, and you have typical Harkian madness. The performances are excellent, with Lin as the standout in a very difficult and confused role. Perhaps a subplot involving Asia's taking over of a Japanese wooden submarine (yeah, right!) goes on a little too long, but it's a minor complaint in this otherwise swell fantasy. But if you can't suspend your disbelief, don't even dream of going.