First things first I want to say all the critics who harshly criticized this film are all dumb. The film isn't a very well received film, and I can only think of 2 reasons why that could be. One, is that it is a retake of an already semi-beloved film. The second, is that the critics were overwhelmed with such awesomeness they crapped themselves, and because they crapped themselves, they hated the experience.
Yimou Zhang is a fairly big name in Hollywood in terms of the body of work he has put together. From making such films as "Hero" and "House of Flying Daggers" which were both well received in America, and then a whole other treasure chest full of films which critics managed to favor in a heavier Chinese party.
Based on critical acceptance, "A Woman, A Gun and A Noodle Shop" was his least bit of work. I on the other hand would rank this on top of both "Hero" and "House of Flying Daggers". I haven't been exposed to his other work.
I was so pleased in watching the film, when I looked into how well it was received, I was baffled. How could I love something so unloved? I really have no clue.
The film was a retake of the Coen Brother's "Blood Simple". I felt this was a better film than theirs. I would also say that the Coen's produce my most anticipated films, based solely on their direction. So by no means am I placing this film over the Coens out of spite in any way.
I felt that artistically, scenes were shot much better. Acting, more on the same level as it's predisessor. And I think direction would still have to go to the creator of the great story found in both films. Originality takes home the most points.
This film could make a great argument for me in declaring it the best film of 2009. I don;t know how well that argument would or could stand against some of my other arguments for other films of 2009, but it would definitely be in the discussions, and definitely in my top 5 for the year.
The film accomplished great humorous sprinkles on top of great mysterious drama. Only a couple scenes had me bothered, mostly in some camera decisions, but only in a couple scenes. One of the most interesting characters I have ever seen is the police officer in the film. Sets and set designs were just awesome, costumes were even better. Just about everything in this film was done to perfection.
The ending leaves us with a random clip of... I don't even know what or how to describe it. It is just odd. I told myself it was the director's signature to someone else's work as his recreation, and that made me feel better. In terms of remakes or retakes, this one gives me reason for hope in the future. A truly great tribute to and from respected directors. Just great.
Watch the movie. Its a foreign film, and with foreign films, come subtitles. Expose yourself to some great foreign films like this and you will be more acceptable to them in the future. Just great.
"A Woman, A Gun and A Noodle Shop"
9 / 10
