Absolutely, this is one of the most majestically crafted and visually stunning movies ever committed to celluloid - which is presumably the reason as to why it finds its way into the Top 250. Wong Kar Wai's most critically lauded film is a triumph of cinematography and composition, but it also lacks much depth. "Blasphemy!" you cry, but consider the general lack of content on show here - at least compared to the emphasis on the lovely visuals. The dreamlike atmosphere that carries through the entirety of In The Mood For Love is initially mesmerising, but as the film goes on, it's difficult not to find yourself yearning for a bit more substance. Of course, there are many who cite this picture as one of the greatest of all foreign films, and one of the reasons for that presumably comes down to the fact that Wong Kar Wai manages to be so restrained. But that doesn't mean it isn't far too repetitive.
Sam Hill is an ardent cinephile and has been writing about film professionally since 2008. He harbours a particular fondness for western and sci-fi movies.
