I’m a big fan of Asian epic fantasy films. While the best of these films are always visually striking, they ultimately hang on the story they tell. If the story is done well (like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon or Hero), they resonate on many levels: good versus evil, sacrifice versus fulfillment, forgiveness versus revenge, love versus fear—all themes that relate to faith and God-talk. In May, America will see what Asia has already seen: The Promise. The plot, according to IMDB:An orphaned girl, driven by poverty at such a young age, makes a promise with an enchantress. In return for beauty and the admiration of every man, she will never be with the man she loves. This spell cannot be broken unless the impossible happens: snow falling in spring and the dead coming back to life. Now a grown and beautiful princess, she regrets her promise, for all of the men she's loved have always been met with tragedy. . .
Is her fate sealed? Or can she still choose the life she wants? You can view the trailer (absolutely stunning) at the film’s web site or Apple’s trailer site (easier access). The film was nominated for a Golden Globe in the Foreign Language category, and will release (I’m assuming limitedly) in the U.S. on May 5. Whether it joins with the likes of CTHD and Hero remains to be seen. I certainly hope so.
(Image: WarnerBros)