Reflection: Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon

Name:
Tutor:
Course:
Date:
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon Review
The movie Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, tells the story of Chinese classical culture with a view at exploring Chinese mythology. The main characters Li Mu Bai, Yu Shu Lien, and Jen, drive the action while at the same time fighting personal troubles in their lives. Jen, who pursues young and charismatic love with Lo, is viewed as reckless due to her quest for love. On the other hand, Bai and Lien portray a different side of unwavering dedication and responsibility while trying to maintain discipline in their lifestyles. These personal beliefs and traditional culture create the underpinnings from which their personal relationships are tested in the film.
It is evident from the film that Bai and Lien have feeling for each other but do not show them openly. Their dedication to living the lifestyle of a Giang Hu demands their full attention in a life of martial arts (Lee). Consequently, Bai realizes that he has an attachment to Lien, which runs contrary to the teachings and beliefs of his lifestyle as a warrior. This presents an external condition that prohibits any instances of love or attachment to others due to the oath denouncing such worldly desires. However, Bai experiences a sense of enlightenment at this point and openly expresses his feelings for Lien despite understanding the consequences. This shows a remarkable twist in the film since Bai has achieved a lot in his life as a warrior through his training and adherence to the Wudan philosophy (Lee). However, he is willing to give it all up due to love. This goes to show the fundamental underpinnings and the power of emotions in a human being. His passion for Lien overpowered everything else, forcing him to fight for it despite every other part of his body, understanding the risks of such actions. However, they both portray a sense of stubbornness since they cannot outwardly act on these feelings due to their importance to duties.
Furthermore, Jen shows a blind belief in her faith and understanding of spirituality with her decision to jump off the mountain. The belief is born from the idea that people who jump will have their wishes granted while their spirits float forever. Under her understanding, she feels regret for many of her choices and decisions that she might have made during her lifetime. Additionally, an essential aspect of Jen’s life is visible with her fascination for masculine symbols, as portraye...