Watching this movie I knew it would be hard to discuss what
the plot was and whether or not it was worth watching. Sitting here trying to
think and then type about it I’m finding just as difficult as I thought it
would be. It’s not that it’s a bad movie, it’s just, well, complicated.
In reading I’ve found that the movie was based on a series
of books. Unfortunately they didn’t translate well to the screen or much was
left out that would have made this easier to follow. Or, since I never read the
books, perhaps the problem lies in trying to encapsulate them into one movie.
A young orphan is taken under the wing of one of several
Dukes who watch over the world. These Dukes take on disciples periodically to
follow in their footsteps and now he is one. Something has happened and the
Dukes who were supposed to work together now find themselves battling one
another in two groups.
The Dukes control spirit animals, beings that help them and
provide both energy and alliances. For instance our new disciple has a snow
lion. Another a white eagle. Each Duke/disciple also draws a weapon from a
location where they are all stored, one that is meant just for them.
Various threads run through the film with the different
Dukes and disciples as they move through this world and finally into one where
they all gather. Trying to figure out which is which and who is good and bad
becomes complicated while watching. Some look near identical. Some change
alliances in the middle of things making it more confusing.
So let’s get down to the real question. Is the film worth
taking the time to watch, is it enjoyable? If you’re willing to stick with I
would say yes. Even though it can be as confusing as I’ve said, there is still
a certain amount of entertainment here to enjoy. The computer animation is
great to watch. If you’ve seen any of the RESIDENT EVIL CGI films then you’ll
know the style I’m talking about. It still hasn’t achieved the ability to
replace actual actors but it’s working on it.
The action and the fairy tale atmosphere of the film are
enjoyable as well. It might not be suitable for some very young children but
the movie is for most. The biggest problem they’ll face is trying to understand
what is going on and staying with it. Children I know would be bored long
before the halfway point. Adults will enjoy it though.
Made in China I’m always interested in seeing what foreign
cinema has to offer. For that reason alone I can recommend this one. It might
not be everyone’s bag of chips but it is still interesting to watch.
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