Red Cliff (2008)

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

Red Cliff (2008) – J. Woo

Epic movies are becoming more like video games and this historical Chinese battle film proves the point. John Woo couldn't really hire a cast of 1000's, could he? Instead, the CGI looks great (not real, but not cheesy). There is enough characterization (particularly by the great Tony Leung) to make the action meaningful and the battle scenes have a good strategic element. Plus, it's John Woo, so you get a guy fighting with a baby in his arms, a dove flying, and two generals pointing swords at each others' throats in a standoff.