description The Assassin (2015) Overview
The Assassin is a 2015 wuxia film directed by Hou Hsiao-hsien. Set during the Tang Dynasty, it depicts a covert assassination plot through meticulously staged swordplay and extended takes. The film’s artistic approach earned Hou the Best Director award at Cannes. It's notable for its immersive atmosphere and unconventional cinematic style appealing to viewers interested in historical martial arts cinema and the work of acclaimed director Hou Hsiao-hsien.
help The Assassin (2015) FAQ
Why does Nie Yinniang refuse to complete some of her assassinations?
Yinniang, played by Shu Qi, has been trained to kill corrupt officials but retains an emotional attachment to people from her former life. Her hesitation becomes central when she is ordered to assassinate Tian Ji'an, the cousin to whom she was once betrothed.
What historical period is The Assassin set in?
The story takes place in ninth-century China during the Tang dynasty, amid tension between the imperial court and the semi-autonomous Weibo province. Its political background comes from the classical tale "Nie Yinniang."
Why is there relatively little sword fighting in The Assassin?
Hou Hsiao-hsien treats violence as brief, decisive interruption rather than continuous spectacle. Long, quiet shots of interiors, landscapes, and court ritual make the film markedly different from action-heavy wuxia such as Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.
What did Hou Hsiao-hsien win at Cannes for The Assassin?
Hou received the Best Director award at the 2015 Cannes Film Festival. The film competed for the Palme d'Or and later represented Taiwan in the Academy Awards submission process.
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