Let The Bullets Fly

“Let the bullets fly,” exclaims bandit leader “Pocky” Zhang (writer/director Jiang Wen, The Sun Also Rises) in the opening minutes of the film inspired by the statement, with his words setting the tone for the shrewd Sergio Leone homage that follows. Indeed, across the 132 minutes that comprise the feature, shots frequently glide through the air in a flurry of frenzied energy, ensuring Let The Bullets Fly (Rang Zidan Fei) is a funny and furious feast of Chinese western / comedy hijinks.

After hijacking a horse-drawn steam train transporting Goose Town’s new governor (Ge You, The Banquet), Zhang assumes his identity. Assisted by the governor’s wife (Carina Lau, 2046), he intends to swindle the city’s inhabitants, however the resistance of local mobster Master Huang (Chow Yun-Fat, Dragonball Evolution) is unforeseen. With neither man willing to acquiesce, Zhang and Huang become ensconced in a battle of wills. Their offsiders are collateral damage as their war rages, with only one emerging victorious.

Amidst the Machiavellian machinations and incessant action that comprise Wen’s fourth full-length feature exists overt elements of duality and duplicity. Imitation, impersonation and the use of doubles abound as the duelling leaders try any trick they can to best their opponent. Accordingly, the politics-laden narrative twists and turns in a tale of greed, power and honour, adding to the film’s overextended running time. And whilst the pace is sustained throughout, superfluous sections show signs of the movie’s reported thirty drafts from six writers, reducing its impact.

Thankfully, although bloated – but never boring – Let The Bullets Fly excels through its exciting aesthetics. Carefully choreographed to elicit an astounding sense of spectacle, the film boasts stylised special effects, stunning set pieces and strikingly cinematic sequences. Impressive editing by Wen aids in the presentation, with the film exuding confidence amidst the craziness and chaos. Colour, too, is used to heighten the visuals, in a film that’s as vibrant as it is frenetic.

The unmistakable and unabashed liveliness helped the feature at the Chinese box office, becoming the highest grossing local film in history. As did its inherent comedy leanings, with the effort refreshing in its ability to never take itself too seriously. Combined with pitch-perfect performances from the recognisable cast (particularly Yun-Fat), the film offers a tongue-in-cheek take on a familiar formula. Accordingly, Let The Bullets Fly is a mischievous yet slightly meandering sensation, let down by its immense, unneeded size.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Let The Bullets Fly
Director: Jiang Wen
China, 2010, 132 min

Screening as part of the Golden Koala Chinese Film Festival, Sydney
10 February: Dendy Cinemas Circular Quay, 2pm
11 February: Dendy Cinemas Circular Quay, 6.30pm

Bookings and info: www.cff.org.au