Story to be Told

A True Storyteller: 

Hou Hsiao-hsien. A small take on his upcoming project "The Assassin"

If we care to delve deep enough there is a beauty that rests within the celluloid, that has consistently been overlooked. The alluring factors that once kept our viewers mesmerized has vanished with the ages that have long past. We as a people now pace ourselves for the clustered arrivals of tent pole film trilogies and reboots, that in my opinion can be hailed in the same arena as the former. 

I myself enjoy the many tent poles that hold court over the summer cinema. But there is the missing piece, the piece that I long for that you don't consistently receive. The storytelling. Original storytelling. This process has been lost. This is why I hold Hou Hsiao-hsien's "The Assassin" in high favor. 

Hou Hsiao-hsien (pictured above)

When directors Primarily known for exceptional work in art-house cinema step into the realm of Wuxia all should take notice. Since this has taken place before in the genre critics and moviegoers alike have done so. In the cases of Ang Lee's "Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon", and one of my favorite filmmakers, Zhang Yimou's "Hero" among others. But in this instance it will be something special. Primarily known for his long drawn out sequences. The many emotions he captures within each slowly paced frame will only culminate into a greatness,that should be understood by all, if we take the time to allow the story to be told.  Just as the story unfolded in the amazing "City Of Sadness". After witnessing this you will understand that he isn't afraid to tell the tale that shouldn't be told. And, in a way that is universally accepted by all beyond his peers within the art form. 

"The Assassin", has spent a quarter of a century in preparation. It was announced in 1989 and has finally found its way to post production. Shu Qi will star in the leading role, she is best known state side for her portrayal of Lie in "The Transporter" opposite Jason Statham. 

On a $15,000,000 budget we will see how this story will be told by a master of storytelling. 

Author Cliff Cosby Jackson