Hero (2002) — A Stunning Wuxia Martial Arts Epic
Directed by Zhang Yimou, Hero is a 2002 Chinese wuxia martial arts film starring Jet Li, Tony Leung Chiu-wai, Maggie Cheung, Zhang Ziyi, Donnie Yen, and Chen Daoming. Set during the Warring States Period, the film follows Nameless (Jet Li), a Qin prefect who claims to have defeated three assassins—Sky, Flying Snow, and Broken Sword—sent to kill the King of Qin. Through a series of flashbacks and revelations, the story explores themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and the unification of China.
With its breathtaking cinematography by Christopher Doyle, haunting score by Tan Dun, and visually striking color-coded storytelling, Hero became a critical and commercial success, earning $177.4 million worldwide and an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. Released in China on October 24, 2002, the film was praised for its artistic direction and philosophical depth, though some critics noted its historical inaccuracies.