Directed by Yuen Woo-ping—the legendary action choreographer behind The Matrix and Kill Bill —you’d expect grounded, bone-crunching martial arts. Instead, this film leans heavily into Tsui Hark’s signature style of "anything goes" fantasy. The Thousand Faces of Dunjia (2017) - Letterboxd
, an ancient form of divination. In this deep-dive, the "Thousand Faces" represent the fluidity of identity and the idea that the universe's ultimate power is not a weapon, but a hidden knowledge accessible only to those who can see beyond physical form. 2. Deconstructing the Hero’s Journey
★★★☆☆ (3.5/5 — Great action, thin plot, stunning visuals) The.Thousand.Faces.of.Dunjia.2017.720p.BluRay.x...
genre through the lens of modern CGI and "Ancient Aliens" mythology.
At its core, the film attempts a radical genre mashup. While most films ground their "magic" in internal or mystical martial arts, The Thousand Faces of Dunjia introduces extraterrestrial threats. The Wumen Sect: In this deep-dive, the "Thousand Faces" represent the
This secret society of protectors functions as a "Men in Black" for ancient China, using mechanical gadgets and illusions to hide the truth of alien incursions from the populace. The Dunjia Concept: The title refers to Qimen Dunjia
The film's action sequences, choreographed by renowned stunt expert, Sammo Hung, are equally impressive. The blend of martial arts, acrobatics, and wire fu creates a thrilling spectacle that will leave viewers on the edge of their seats. At its core, the film attempts a radical genre mashup
One of the standout aspects of "The Thousand Faces of Dunjia" is its breathtaking visuals. Zhang Yimou, known for his stunning cinematography, weaves a kaleidoscope of colors, textures, and lighting effects that transport viewers to a fantastical world. The film's use of vibrant hues, intricate costumes, and ornate sets creates a visually stunning experience that is both captivating and immersive.
Visually, the film is a feast. Tsui Hark’s influence is felt in every frame, featuring bizarre creature designs, gravity-defying action sequences, and a vibrant color palette that pops in high definition. While the CGI-heavy approach was met with mixed reviews from purists who prefer the practical wire-work of Yuen Woo-ping’s earlier classics like Iron Monkey, the film’s sheer ambition is undeniable. It leans heavily into the "Shenmo" (gods and demons) subgenre, providing a surreal atmosphere where magic and technology collide.
For those interested in watching "The Thousand Faces of Dunjia" in its 720p BluRay glory, there are several options available:
If you’re a fan of Chinese cinema, the names and Tsui Hark are basically royalty. When they teamed up for the 2017 fantasy-wuxia epic The Thousand Faces of Dunjia , expectations were sky-high. Now that the film is widely available in high-definition formats like the 720p BluRay x264 release, it’s the perfect time to revisit this colorful, chaotic, and CGI-heavy adventure. The Plot: Monsters, Magic, and Misfits