Red Cliff (film)

Red Cliff is a 200809 Chinese epic war film, based on the Battle of Red Cliffs 208209 AD and the events at the end of the Han dynasty and immediately prior to the Three Kingdoms period in ancient China. The film was directed by John Woo, and stars Tony Leung, Takeshi Kaneshiro, Zhang Fengyi, Chang Chen, Zhao Wei, Hu Jun and Lin Chiling . It is Woos first major film since 2003s Paycheck and his first Chineselanguage feature since 1992s Hard Boiled, also starring Leung.

Director John Woo said in an interview with David Stratton that the film is only 50 factual. Woo decided to alter the story using modern feelings and his own feelings for a more worldly acceptance. According to Woo, historical accuracy was less important than how the audience felt about the battle.In the summer of 208, towards the end of the Eastern Han dynasty, the Chancellor, Cao Cao, leads the imperial army on a campaign to eliminate the southern warlords Sun Quan and Liu Bei, whom he denounces as rebels. Emperor Xian reluctantly approves the campaign. Cao Caos mighty army swiftly conquers Jing Province. The Battle of Changban is ignited when Cao Caos cavalry starts attacking civilians on an exodus led by Liu Bei. During the battle, Liu Beis followers, including his sworn brothers Guan Yu and Zhang Fei, give an excellent display of their combat skills by holding off the enemy while buying time for the civilians to retreat. The warrior Zhao Yun fights bravely to rescue Liu Beis entrapped family but only succeeds in rescuing Lius infant son. ........

Source: Wikipedia