Comments: I've been studying the history of China and decided to watch this, as it is ostensibly about a Mohist philosopher warrior. The Mohists are the forgotten fourth group of thinkers from the Spring and Autumn/Warring States period that gave birth to Conficianism, Taoism, and Legalism. The Mohists believed in "universal love", and the big guns of the school, like most other philosophers of the time, were also advice givers on war. They weren't "turn the other cheek" pacifists but they were strictly defensive thinkers, offering nothing on how to attack. If a bunch of folks got killed during a slick defensive maneuver, however, so be it. No problem. The film is about a single Mohist dude who comes to the aid of a city-state about to be hit by the invading Zhao. It's complicated by a love story and essaying on the cult of celebrity. I had more fun reading about the history of the period than I did watching this movie. It's not bad, just a little sloppy.
Summary: In 370 B.C, China was separated as seven nations and several other small tribes, one of these being the city state of Liang. The nation of Zhao is led by the terrifying prime commander Xiang Yangzhong who orders his troops to launch an attack on Liang in a bid to conquer the small city. Leaping to the defense of the cowed people of Liang is a warrior who goes by the name of 'Ge Li' from the Mo-Tsu tribe, renowned for its defensive skills. He is their last hope as the terrors of Yangzhong's troops are unleashed. The future of Liang now hangs in the balance, with all their hopes pinned on the mysterious Mo-Tsu warrior Ge Li...
Muk gong
2006
China
Battle of Wits
