Although Chinese historical war films are ten a penny these days, SAVING GENERAL YANG deserves plaudits for achieving what it sets out to achieve with grace and finesse. It's an exciting romp, a tale of survival packed with splendid action and a well-realised historical world.
The story comes across as something like 300 meets DYNASTY WARRIORS; it tells of a popular Chinese legend about the titular character, who must hold off an invading horde with only the help of his seven sons. SAVING GENERAL YANG eschews big-name stars (the only well-known cast member here is musician Ekin Cheng, hidden among the ensemble group) in favour of a tight and compelling narrative that focuses on desperate action throughout.
The choreography is well achieved, which comes as no surprise for a Chinese movie, and there are plenty of highlights and imaginative moments. The death scenes are heartfelt and moving. The movie does have lots of similarities to other flicks, particularly WAR OF THE ARROWS at the climax, but that doesn't stop it being from a nice action film in its own right with a pace that never lets up.
The story comes across as something like 300 meets DYNASTY WARRIORS; it tells of a popular Chinese legend about the titular character, who must hold off an invading horde with only the help of his seven sons. SAVING GENERAL YANG eschews big-name stars (the only well-known cast member here is musician Ekin Cheng, hidden among the ensemble group) in favour of a tight and compelling narrative that focuses on desperate action throughout.
The choreography is well achieved, which comes as no surprise for a Chinese movie, and there are plenty of highlights and imaginative moments. The death scenes are heartfelt and moving. The movie does have lots of similarities to other flicks, particularly WAR OF THE ARROWS at the climax, but that doesn't stop it being from a nice action film in its own right with a pace that never lets up.