Wuershan's Low-Budget Flick Makes a Huge Debut

It’s rare for a Chinese director to debut a film in more countries than Zhang Yimou’s blockbuster Hero, but Wuershan’s low-budget flick The Butcher, the Chef and the Swordsman has done it. Set in ancient China, this comedy follows three interconnected stories that center around a prized kitchen knife.

Wuershan has done wonders with a paltry ¥8 million budget. In addition to directing slick scenes reminiscent of video games àla Tarantino’s Kill Bill Vol. 1, he even managed to throw in black-and-white animation sequences. But while Tarantino’s tale of often bloody revenge is definitely rated R, Wuershan borrows the style but leaves out the violence. Though sleek, modern and, at times, laugh-out-loud funny, his film is solid PG-13 fare.

Wuershan’s 10 years of shooting ad campaigns are on display in the film. Slick cinematography, careful editing and attention to detail, create a fast-paced, watchable film.

Critics have yet to make up their minds about Wuershan’s cinematic debut. Some are quick to point out its flaws, while others praise its success as a much-needed shot in the arm for China’s film industry. But while they argue it out, theater audiences are lapping up Wuershan’s innovative use of makeup and dialogue, which nicely complement both his low budget and the film’s interesting, well paced script.

Wuershan’s achievements on a shoestring budget beg the question of what he could do if he had the money. The answer will come soon enough—he’s signed on to make a ¥70 million sequel to 2008’s Painted Skin. In Chinese with English subtitles. ¥60.

DETAILS:

What: The Butcher, the Chef and the Swordsman

Where: now playing at Broadway Cinematheque Moma

Tel: 8438-8258 ext. 8008