Bodyguards and Assassins

[Anonymous]

I too saw "Bodyguards and Assassins". It's unrated by the MPAA, but I feel that it would be inappropriate to show to younger viewers due to the violence and gore. Although it is a fictional assassination attempt, it does pique ones interest in the subject matter of the importance of Dr. Sun Yat-Sen. The underlying theme that social class was a thing of the past and that a "new" China would emerge through this revolution plays a key role in this movie. This theme is the sticking point as the only son of a wealthy merchant is chosen at random to play the decoy of Dr. Sun while the Empress' assassins attempt to kill him. In one of the scenes, the son tells his father that he must fulfill his duty and play the part of the decoy regardless of his social class. It would not be looked upon nicely if he were to back out because it went against the philosophy of change they were hoping to accomplish.

Another point I recall is from an interview with Donnie Yen, I believe. He mentioned how Asian heroes and American heroes differ in the cinematic world. Donnie noted that an American hero seeks out opportunities to become the hero and is waiting his chance at becoming the savior. On the other hand, the Asian hero does not seek out the glory of becoming a hero. The duty falls upon him whether he wants it or not. I think this would apply to the two characters Li Chung-guang and Sum Chung-yang.

[Rob_Hugo@PortNW]

The 2009 movie “Bodyguards and Assassins” details a fictional assassination attempt on the life of Sun Yat-Sen, who was instrumental in bringing down the Qing Dynasty. It was filmed in Hong Kong and was directed by Teddy Chan. In the movie, Sun Yat-Sen is coming to Hong Kong to speak with the leaders of the various factions in an attempt to overthrow the Qing Dynasty and bring democracy to China. The Empress Dowager sends assassins to kill Sun before he speaks to the faction leaders: his supporters make plans to transport Sun (known in the movie as Dr. Sun) to the meeting. They devise a series of diversions, including multiple rickshaws with a body double. Many of the supporters give their life for what they believe to be a better China and each “death” is highlighted with the character’s dates of birth and death. Dr. Sun is able to speak to the faction leaders and they are able to overthrow the corrupt Qing dynasty and create the Republic of China. While based on history, the greatest feature of the movie is the action sequences. There are some great fight sequences as the supporters give their lives for a “better China”. I highly recommend this movie to those that enjoy martial arts films, especially those based on history!

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