I’ve just watched “The Grandmaster” for the third time (the US version for the first time) and I have to say it... It may be my favourite kung fu film of all time. Granted, it’s not without flaws (some of that slow motion jiggly camer work is annoying early on) but it’s 90% perfect.
There is no better homage to martial arts. And it’s done so fucking beautifully. The fight scenes are visual poetry and, I think, some of Yuen Woo Ping’s best modern work. The styles on display are such a breath of fresh air.
And the fact it’s a film about kung fu, love and being in love with kung fu. It’s so deep and meaningful (though the US version does overexplain things). There are fights I prefer and there are plots I prefer but no other film combines those elements to be this good. Not even “Hero”. This film feels even more gorgeous than Zhang Yimou’s efforts. And yes, even “Crouching Tiger...”
Everything about this film is top class film making. It’s the most unique blend or art house beauty and just great action. It’s a beauteous blend of everything I was from a film. Top tier casting too. Zhang Ziyi blows my balls off with her performance. Rightly so, since the film is more a redemption story about Gong Er than an Ip Man biography. Although Tony Leung is fantastic too.
It might not be a film I rewatch every month but it’s with giddy enthusiasm that I’ll revisit it in years to come. It really might be my all-time favourite kung fu film. And that’s saying something.
