Starring: Chow Yun Fat, Michelle Yeoh, Ziyi Zhang
Director: Ang Lee
Country: China
Genre: Foreign, Drama, Action

Far be it for anyone to criticizes any of Ang Lee’s films too much. Even his less successful films have more passion in them than a good percentage of the films made. But when his films are successful, they are among the best all of cinema has to offer. Crouching Tiger happens to be one of those films that just plain astounds.

Ang Lee creates a modern myth with this martial arts film about a warrior who has reached the end of his days of killing. He attempts to give up his majestic sword The Green Destiny to his aging friend, but it’s soon stolen and can only be retrieved by the warrior himself. This adventure leads through the depths of jealousy, unrequited love, and revenge.

Lee reaches new levels of artistry here. Tiger is probably his most stunning film in terms of photography and visual storytelling. So few films can match its dreamlike imagery and transcendent fight sequences. Lee’s ability to transform a scene into something ethereal is unparalleled and makes for some of the most unforgettable imagery of the decade. Plus, it kicks ass.