The Grandmaster

The Grandmaster (2013)

Noms: Cinematography, Costume Design

Why I watched it:

1) Only movie with multiple nominations I hadn't seen from this past year

2) It only became available from Netflix recently

Great kung fu movie! Lots of intricate fight sequences and a good amount of history. I loved getting a glimpse at part of China's history that isn't seen much. Post-dynastic yet not modern. Very cool. Also really interesting to see the changes that the martial arts are going through in this time into becoming a much more main stream practice. The title character goes on to train the infamous Bruce Lee, btw.

There were so many interesting characters introduced that I wish got more screentime and development. Especially the female master of Bagua (I think that's the form she used - there's of detailed information about kung fu to absorb here). It was SO intriguing that there was a female master, Particularly when gender dynamics in this world were such a major plot point. Oh yeah, and she was a martial arts master....WITH BOUND FEET!- da fuh?!

Within the first few seconds of the first scene - which is an awesome fight sequence in the rain - I immediately understood why it was nominated for Cinematography and Costume Design. The camerawork, especially in the numerous fight sequences, was really daring and beautiful. The camera brings focus to really specific parts of the fighting and shows what the fighter is focusing on. At least that's is what I understood it be doing - there were an awful lot of close-ups of feet. Cool, but not something you see everyday. Probably would not have noticed the bound feet without that. As for costumes, it's both set in China and a period piece, and the Academy just eats that shit up when it comes to costumes. Can I also say, that hat - so iconic. I didn't know anything about Ip Man going in, but I assume he must be associated with wearing a hat, right?

Surprise Appearance: I didn't think I would know any of the actors in this, because I don't watch many foreign films, but lo and behold - Ziyi Zhang! I love her! I first saw her in Memoirs of a Geisha, but I really loved her in House of the Flying Daggers.

The picture might be misleading, because she is not technically the main character of the film. The man in the hat in the background is, but I love Ziyi Zhang and this photo was so striking.

Next up: Looks like I'm finally gonna watch Before Sunset (and maybe Bad Grandpa) tonight with the roommies!