Full River red movie review 2023

The Chinese spy comedy “Full River Red” may not immediately strike viewers as state-approved propaganda if they focus solely on the movie itself. However, there are some signs, both in and about the film, that suggest otherwise. For one, the movie was directed by Zhang Yimou, who has also directed Olympic ceremonies in Beijing and was fined for violating China’s One Child Policy. Moreover, the movie's finale takes a saber-rattling turn that promotes nationalistic slogans, which has led some critics to question its endorsement of state propaganda.

Despite these concerns, “Full River Red” has been a commercial success, grossing the highest among this year’s Lunar New Year releases. The film's plot revolves around a labyrinthine conspiracy set in the Song Dynasty during the 13th century. The story follows a constantly rotating cast of guardsmen, courtiers, and informants who accuse each other of killing a Jin region diplomat and stealing a message intended for Chancellor Qin Hui, their sickly and paranoid leader. The plot thickens as a dramatic finale unfolds, leading towards the commemoration of the titular anthemic poem that sings of “national shame,” “lost land,” and enemies lurking beyond the Helan Mountains.

Although the movie's dramatic finale casts a shadow over its preceding events, it does not fundamentally change or detract from the black comedy that tends to be broad, mordant, and bracing. Zhang's affinity for loopy, Coen brothers-esque gallows humor is on full display in “Full River Red”. The movie stops and starts with a high-strung, peripatetic rhythm that includes dynamic, off-kilter dialogue wedged between sudden deaths. A robust cast of supporting characters habitually points fingers and then invariably turns the tables on each other, making for an unpredictable and exhausting viewing experience.

The movie's supporting cast is particularly impressive, including the lead actor Shen Teng as Corporal Zhang Da, who is tasked with hiding a confidential letter and implicating others during his investigation. Each character has ulterior plans and motives, adding to the screwball-fast dialogue and escalating mystery plot. Even the mulish but sympathetic deputy guardsman commander Sun Jun, played by Jackson Yee, dances around the limits of his autonomy and influence as everybody around him dies and/or gets fingered.

Dream-like drone camerawork and surreal image-compositing give interstitial scenes a dramatic cohesion that is over-scored with a musical chorus combining hip-hop vocals and Peking opera-style instrumentation. Han Hong’s score is clearly jarring, combining upbeat singer-narration with scenes of soldiers untangling a body from the ceiling's crossbeams. The corridors of power are narrow and spider-vein-thin, but still well-traveled and precisely navigated by Zhang and his well-synchronized collaborators.

While “Full River Red” may be polarizing for some, it is still deliberate and ruthlessly effective in delivering its message. The film's arch dramatic thrust and provocative signaling in the finale make it clear that the movie endorses nationalistic slogans, which has led some to criticize it as state propaganda. Ultimately, viewers must decide for themselves if “Full River Red” is more pandering than conflicted in its message. Regardless, the movie's snappy comedy routines and perpetually escalating mystery plot ensure that it never slows down nor retraces its steps long enough to feel monotonous.

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In 12th century China, during the Song Dynasty, the country was on the brink of a rebellion by the Jin people against the Imperial Court. The situation was already volatile, and just two hours before a crucial diplomatic meeting between the Song Prime Minister Qin Hui and a high-level Jin delegation, things took a drastic turn. The Jin Ambassador was found murdered, and an important letter meant for the Emperor was stolen from him. This turn of events set in motion a chain of events that would change the course of history.

As the search for the stolen letter unfolded, alliances were formed, secrets were revealed, and no one could stop the truth that was destined to leave its mark in history. The story is set against the backdrop of an impending war, with the fate of the empire hanging in the balance.

The movie, directed by Yimou Zhang, promises to be a thrilling action-packed adventure with a touch of comedy. Yimou Zhang and Chen Yu have penned the script, which promises to be a compelling narrative with a host of interesting characters. The film's producer, Pang Liwei, has brought together a talented cast and crew to bring the story to life on the big screen.

The movie is set to be released on March 17, 2023, in limited theaters, and is distributed by Niu Vision Media/Beyond Events. The film promises to be a cinematic treat, with Dolby Atmos sound mix and Scope (2.35:1) aspect ratio that will transport the audience back in time to witness the drama unfold.

In conclusion, the movie promises to be an epic tale of love, war, and betrayal set against the backdrop of one of China's most tumultuous periods in history. With a talented cast and crew, the film is sure to keep the audience on the edge of their seats from start to finish. So mark your calendars and get ready to witness a cinematic masterpiece that will leave a lasting impression on your mind.