Movie review: "Curse Of The Golden Flower" (2006)

Assuming "Curse Of The Golden Flower"’s historically accurate, then every woman at China’s imperial court in the 10th Century – from lowly servants up to the Empress (Gong Li) – dressed to emphasise her cleavage. The only thing more prominent was the will of the Emperor (Chow Yun Fat), which was beyond questioning even by members of his family.

Therein lies this story’s conflict, as a sham royal marriage and three princes with differing ambitions leads to poisoning, plotting, incestuous affairs and, ultimately, rebellion. Unlike in other recent Chinese epics, the action’s mainly confined to one location – the palace – and, with a couple of exceptions, bloody mass combat replaces lengthy, super-acrobatic duels.

You won’t miss the usual array of picturesque landscapes, though, as the imperial furnishings are blinding in their opulence and the daily precision rituals of the court are fascinating. When it comes time to celebrate the Chrysanthemum Festival (the flower of the title), prepare to be astonished by the magnitude of the decorations – and of the destruction that follows.

Final word: A tragic spectacle. Almost too tragic.

[Australian cinema release date: April 12]