There is less fighting action than you might expect – but it's always a treat when Lien shows up. She literally makes mincemeat out of her enemies with nothing more than a strong rope; I mean, this girl is just wicked fast, and she would just as soon snap your head off as look at you – although, it must be said that Cho does manage to see more of her than any other man ever lived to tell about. Obviously, there is a romantic element to the story; it's a sort of Romeo and Juliet star-crossed lovers theme, except the Montagues and Capulets never went so far as to go around beheading each other. The romantic dimension is actually rather subtle, and any viewers who miss the full impact of the revelations toward the end may well wonder how this could be considered much of a love story at all.

Director Ronny Yu's The Bride With White Hair is a beautiful film, but I must admit that I felt it lacked a certain vitality; the picture always seem to be somewhat cloudy in some indistinct kind of way, making the print look older than it is (the film was released in 1993). Still, perhaps the real beauty of the film is its ability to succeed on multiple levels. Naturally, there's the obvious martial arts and romantic themes, but this movie also offers up an intriguing study of good and evil and, in particular, one's personal responsibility toward others on both sides of the conflict.

One of the most visually stunning films I have ever seen
Review date: 2003-02-04 Rating: 10 out of 10

This is what cinema is all about. BwWH hits you between the eyes - hard. The sumptuous colours and backdrops are just stunning. The storyline is more complex than most martial arts films and it really stands up to close viewing.

This is wonderful film, as in "full of wonder". If you appreciate Asian cinema, you really should watch it.


Excellent heroic martial arts film.

Review date: 2001-09-17 Rating: 8 out of 10

An excellent example of the heroic martial arts genre out of which came Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, The Bride with White Hair combines fantastic cinematography with an exciting storyline. On this DVD release, it looks better than ever, although the extras are restricted to cast/crew interviews and a making-of documentary. The story is that of the love that springs up between Cho Yi-Hang, the heir of the Wu-Tang Clan, and Lein, an assasin working for a cult that is working to destroy Wu-Tang, who try to leave their former lives to find peace with each other. Predictaby, given this genre's concerns with duty and destiny, their actions lead to disaster all round. Although Bride I is viewable on its own, it really needs to be seen in conjuction with its sequel, which ties up the end of the story. Beautiful, touching and occasionally breath-taking, although the fight scenes perhaps leave something to be desired.

On a side note, this is essential viewing for all fans of Xena: Warrior Princess as the scene where Lein leaves the cult provided the inspiration behind Xena.

A strangely disturbing but at the same time mesmeric film
Review date: 2001-01-25 Rating: 10 out of 10

When i first began to watch this film i didnt know what to expect but i slowly began to be mesmerised by this films beutiful use of colour and camera shots wich compliments the storys dark and supernatural side perfectally.I do know this is a very bold statement to make but i would almost rate this film to be better than yhe incredible Crouching tiger hidden dragon,and this is not because of the fighting(Wich is good,but not amazing)but because of its incredible plot. over all i think this is a must see film for any one who who has any interest in this genre of film.

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