Red Cliff (2008) Review in 2025
Red Cliff is an epic historical war film set in ancient China, following the story of two warlords, Zhuge Liang and Cao Cao, as they clash in a battle for power.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for young children due to intense war scenes and some graphic violence.
CineReview Recommendation
Red Cliff is a must-watch for fans of historical epics and action films. It's a cinematic experience that will leave you breathless and eager for more.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The film is based on the 14th-century novel 'Romance of the Three Kingdoms' and tells the story of the Battle of Red Cliff, a pivotal moment in Chinese history where the warlords Zhuge Liang and Liu Bei defeat the powerful Cao Cao, marking a turning point in the Three Kingdoms period.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear focus on the epic battle of Red Cliff. The film's narrative is faithful to the original novel, with some creative liberties taken to enhance the storytelling.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with each performer bringing their A-game to the film. The chemistry between the leads is undeniable, and the supporting cast is equally impressive.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with each one bringing their own unique personality to the story. The performances are top-notch, with standout performances from Tony Leung and Takeshi Kaneshiro.
direction9.50/10
John Woo's direction is masterful, bringing a sense of grandeur and scale to the film. The battle scenes are intense and well-choreographed, with a clear attention to detail.
cinematography9.50/10
The cinematography is stunning, with breathtaking vistas and impressive battle scenes. The use of color and lighting is also noteworthy, adding to the overall atmosphere of the film.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's epic scope, stunning cinematography, and memorable performances make it a standout in the historical epic genre.
Cons
The film's length may be off-putting for some viewers, and the pacing can be slow at times.
Notable Quotes
"A leader must make difficult decisions, but a true leader must also know when to let go."
"A true warrior does not fight for victory, but for honor."
"The battle of Red Cliff will be remembered for generations to come."
