The Assassin
description The Assassin Overview
Hou Hsiao-hsien's 2015 film is a visually stunning and meditative wuxia film set in 9th-century China. The film follows Nie Yinniang, a trained assassin tasked with killing a corrupt official. Its characterized by its slow pacing, long takes, and emphasis on atmosphere and visual detail, creating a dreamlike and ethereal quality. The films deliberate pace and focus on subtle emotions offer a unique and contemplative take on the wuxia genre, showcasing a profound understanding of Chinese aesthetics.
info The Assassin Specifications
| Genre | Wuxia, Martial Arts, Drama |
| Awards | Cannes Best Director, Golden Horse Best Cinematography |
| Runtime | 105 minutes |
| Director | Hou Hsiao-hsien |
| Language | Mandarin Chinese, Taiwanese, Japanese |
| Aspect Ratio | 2.35:1 |
| Release Year | 2015 |
| Cinematographer | Chung Mong-hong |
| Country Of Origin | Taiwan/France |
| Production Company | China Film Group, 3 Horizons Foundation |
balance The Assassin Vorteile & Nachteile
- Stunning cinematography with meticulously composed wide shots that showcase 9th-century Chinese landscapes and architecture
- Innovative slow-burn pacing that builds tension through atmosphere rather than conventional action sequences
- Rich cultural authenticity representing Taiwanese cinema with deep respect for historical wuxia traditions
- Expert use of long takes allowing viewers to absorb environmental details and emotional subtext
- Elegant minimalism in storytelling that rewards patient viewers with subtle character development
- Acclaimed direction by Hou Hsiao-hsien demonstrating mastery of visual storytelling and non-linear narrative structure
- Deliberate slow pacing may alienate viewers expecting traditional wuxia action or faster narrative momentum
- Sparse dialogue and minimal exposition can leave casual viewers disconnected from plot nuances
- Requires subtitles and cultural context for full appreciation, potentially limiting accessibility
- Limited traditional character development as focus remains on atmosphere over individual arc resolution
- Not suitable for viewers seeking conventional action sequences or clear antagonist-villain dynamics
help The Assassin FAQ
What is The Assassin (2015) rated and where can I watch it?
The film is unrated but generally considered suitable for mature audiences. It can be streamed on platforms like MUBI, Criterion Channel, and Amazon Prime Video, or rented digitally through Apple TV and Google Play.
Is The Assassin based on a true story or source material?
No, The Assassin is an original screenplay by Hou Hsiao-hsien and Chu T'ien-wen. While set during the Tang Dynasty, the specific characters and story are fictional creations.
What awards did The Assassin win at film festivals?
The film won the Best Director award at the 2015 Cannes Film Festival and received the Best Cinematography award at the 52nd Golden Horse Awards.
How long is The Assassin and what language is it in?
The Assassin has a runtime of approximately 105 minutes. The film is primarily in Mandarin Chinese with some Taiwanese and Japanese dialogue, requiring subtitles for most viewers.
What makes The Assassin different from other wuxia films?
Unlike traditional wuxia films with choreographed fight sequences and clear narratives, Hou Hsiao-hsien's film emphasizes visual composition, atmospheric tension, and cultural nuance over action spectacle and linear plotting.
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What are the key specifications of The Assassin?
- Genre: Wuxia, Martial Arts, Drama
- Awards: Cannes Best Director, Golden Horse Best Cinematography
- Runtime: 105 minutes
- Director: Hou Hsiao-hsien
- Language: Mandarin Chinese, Taiwanese, Japanese
- Aspect Ratio: 2.35:1
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