Stunning Visuals and the Deception of War

Read Time:3 Minute, 39 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Beauty Of Beauties
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Genre: Drama, History
Year Released: 1965, 2024 88 Films Blu-ray
Runtime: 2h 35m
Director(s): Han Hsiang Li
Writer(s): Shao-Hua Tang
Cast: Ching Chiang as Hsi Shih, Lei Zhao as Yueh Emperor Kou-chien, Fang-Hsia Chang as Pei-li, Feng Chang as Ku Cheng, Shih Chin, Mu Chu, Mien Fang, Bi-Hui Fu, Po Hung, Ming Kao, Sing-Po Leung, Kuan-Chang Li
Language: Language: Chinese (Mandarin) with English subtitles
Where To Watch: available May 21, 2024; pre-order here www.88-films.myshopify.com, www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: As the first frames come into focus in THE BEAUTY OF BEAUTIES, you're instantly whisked away to ancient China, where cunning wins over brute strength. Directed by Li Han-Hsiang, this film dives deep into the turbulent Warring States Period, renowned for its relentless inter-kingdom strife. With a blend of colossal battle scenes and intricate deception, the film revolves around the compelling Xi Si, whose beauty becomes a strategic tool in a dangerous power play.

In THE BEAUTY OF BEAUTIES, Lei Zhao portrays King Goujian of Yue, who uses Xi Si, a role played with depth by Ching Chiang, to destabilize King Fucha of Wu. Fucha, brought to life with a specific vulnerability by Mu Chu, finds his downfall through his infatuation. This seductive strategy leads to a dramatic shift in the balance of power, offering a refreshing twist on the traditional epic narrative.

While THE BEAUTY OF BEAUTIES boasts a lavish set and a cast teeming with extras, its runtime may test the patience of some audience members. Yet, those who commit will find the film's visual storytelling rewarding—a display of lush landscapes and intricate costume designs. The grandeur of ancient China is brought to life through vibrant colors and detailed production design, with the cinematography delineating the opulence of Wu from Yue’s rugged determination.

Chiang transcends the traditional role of a damsel, portraying Xi Si with a mix of grace and insight. Her dynamic with Lei Zhao and Mu Chu adds complexity to the narrative, enriching the film with shocking human emotion. This trio's performances anchor the plot’s extensive political and personal intrigues, turning it into an absorbing exploration of strategy over sheer force.

Despite its length, THE BEAUTY OF BEAUTIES remains an engaging epic, especially for those fascinated by historical dramas that tackle significant themes with monumental events. 88 Films' release not only revisits its spectacular visual and dramatic elements but also enhances the viewing experience with a detailed remaster of the original negative.

For cinema lovers, THE BEAUTY OF BEAUTIES presents a perfect blend of historical richness and visual splendor. It’s more than just a window into the past; it showcases how deep thematic elements like power, betrayal, and redemption are interwoven through masterful storytelling and cinematic finesse—a must-see for enthusiasts of epic storytelling and those who appreciate the art of film.

Bonus Materials
Brand new 4K Remaster from the Original Negatives High Definition (1080p) Blu-ray in 2.39:1 Aspect Ratio
2.0 Original Mandarin Mono
Newly Translated English Subtitles
An Interview with Oriental Cinema Expert Tony Rayns
Original Trailer Restoration Comparison

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[photo courtesy of 88 FILMS, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

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