~ kusala
[ ku-sa-la: Pali term meaning wholesome, skillful, good, meritorious. ]
[ Action characterized by this quality (kusala-kamma) is bound to result (eventually) in happiness and a favorable outcome. ]
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kusala.diaryland.com

2005-09-27 - 9:05 a.m.

Viva Hong Kong

After seeing 2046 last weekend, I'm definitely more committed than ever to praying at the altar of director Wong Kar-Wai.

A fan of linear narrative or plot might be disappointed, but it was like being treated to a 2-hour art exhibit. The photography and costumes (#1. Zhang Ziyi, #2. Li Gong,, #3. Maggie Cheung, and #4. Tony Leung & Zhang) were more than stunning, and at least once a scene brought a tear to my eye. The use of music was also superb, and overall I found the evocation of memory, nostalgia, and romantic longing to be amazing.

This will now rank among my favorites, along with Chungking Express and In the Mood for Love. [The directive would be: YES, add them to your need-to-rent list.]

Much as I seem to prefer and enjoy pared down, hyper-naturalistic, low-budget, and one might say even "bleak" films (see: Mike Leigh), the type of incredibly lush production seen in 2046 reminds me of the unparalleled pleasure of getting completely lost -- and finding something extraordinary -- in Cinema (with a capital "C").



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