*The Great Wall* (2016), directed by Zhang Yimou, is an ambitious fantasy-action film that combines Chinese mythology with Hollywood spectacle. The story centers on a European mercenary, William Garin (Matt Damon), who, along with his companion, Tovar (Pedro Pascal), travels to China in search of black powder but ends up in the midst of an epic battle against monstrous creatures, the Taotie. The two mercenaries find themselves at the Great Wall, defended by a military order known as the Nameless Order, who have trained for generations to protect against these creatures.
### Visuals and Cinematography
One of the film’s strongest aspects is its stunning visuals and Zhang Yimou’s trademark use of color. Each division of the Nameless Order is distinguished by different colors and fighting styles, leading to some visually spectacular battle scenes. The film’s set design, costumes, and the vibrant portrayal of the Great Wall itself are impressive and help build an immersive experience.
### Action and Effects
The action scenes are choreographed in a highly stylized way, mixing traditional Chinese martial arts with large-scale fantasy battles. The Taotie monsters are well-rendered and provide a palpable sense of threat, though some viewers felt they were a bit too CGI-heavy, impacting realism.
### Story and Characters
However, the film’s story and character development received mixed reviews. While the film explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and honor, the character arcs, particularly for the lead, felt underdeveloped to many viewers. Matt Damon’s character was seen as a rather flat hero, lacking the emotional depth that could have grounded the fantastical elements. Critics also pointed out that the storyline was relatively simple, focusing more on spectacle than on a complex narrative. The film also faced criticism for “white savior” tropes, as some felt Damon’s character overshadowed the Chinese heroes, despite their established expertise and bravery.
### Reception
Upon its release, *The Great Wall* received mixed to negative reviews, with critics praising its visual style and action sequences but criticizing its narrative and character depth. Despite a significant budget and high expectations, the film struggled at the box office in the United States, though it performed better in China.
### Final Thoughts
*The Great Wall* is a unique blend of Hollywood action and Chinese folklore, offering visually captivating scenes and a fresh take on the fantasy genre. However, its limited character development and straightforward plot may leave viewers wanting more in terms of storytelling depth. It’s a film that may appeal to fans of high-action fantasy with striking visuals, but may not satisfy those seeking a layered narrative or deep character exploration.
