There aren't many films which can boast well developed characters, martial arts romance and a strong feminist feel.

You think that's a high jump...

But when you have a director like Ang Lee, who's previous films have included the beautiful Sense and Sensibility and thought provoking Ice Storm, then you shouldn't be surprised.

Legendary warrior Li Mu Bai (Chow Yun-Fat) decides to retire and hands in his famous jade sword to Governor Yu.

...then how about this.

Unfortunately the sword is stolen and people starts being killed.

It's the cue for a series of high flying fighting sequences, starring, amongst others, Michelle Yeoh, last seen helping 007 James Bond in Tomorrow Never Dies.

I spy with my little eye.

Yet the story takes second place to the visuals. CrouchingTiger shows cinematography at its best. Beautiful scene follows beautiful scene and the movie is one of those you must see on the big screen. Waiting for a post-midnight slot on BBC2 in a couple of years simply won't do.

If there is a criticism it's the length of the movie. You can have too much of a good thing - even stunning shots. At two hours Crouching Tiger is epic in length. By the climax, however, you're starting to notice the dubbed voices more than the actual on screen action.