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Let the Bullets Fly
让子弹飞
2010 132 min China, Hong Kong 0+
★7.2
Action, Comedy
Director: Wen Jiang
Trailers
Description
When circumstances force an outlaw to impersonate a county governor and clean up a corrupt town, the Robin Hood figure finds himself in a showdown with the local godfather.
US Gross:
$63,012
Worldwide:
$104.73M
Starring
Chow Yun-Fat
Actor
Wen Jiang
Actor
You Ge
Actor
Awards
Asian Film Academy 2011
— Best Costume Design
Asian Film Academy 2011
— Best Picture
Asian Film Academy 2011
— Best Actor
Asian Film Academy 2011
— Best Supporting Actress
Asian Film Academy 2011
— Best Director
Asian Film Academy 2011
— Best Screenplay
Key opinion
Let the Bullets Fly is a highly stylized, satirical 'Chinese spaghetti western' that expertly balances sharp political critique with absurdist black comedy. While some viewers praise its intricate, intellectual depth and engaging performances, others feel the film occasionally veers into overly broad buffoonery that dilutes its momentum.
| Direction | Jiang Wen's multi-faceted role as director and lead provides an essential, grounding anchor that prevents the chaotic ensemble of characters from becoming incoherent. | |
| Screenplay | The script functions as a sharp, culturally nuanced satire of power dynamics and bureaucracy that rewards viewers who engage with its ironic, non-literal tone. | |
| Production | The film's visual and stylistic execution creates a unique, slick aesthetic that successfully blends elements of classic Western tropes with distinct Chinese surrealism. | |
| Pacing | The narrative's fast-paced, chess-like complexity keeps viewers mentally engaged but also creates a significant barrier to entry for those struggling with cultural nuances or rapid plot developments. | |
| Acting | Performances are generally viewed as a strength, though opinions differ on whether the style remains consistently sophisticated or descends into distracting, American-style slapstick. |