Cast
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Crew
Director
- Liu Hongyang
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Journey To The West: Ask Tao represents a fascinating example of Fantasy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Liu Hongyang brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2023, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Journey To The West: Ask Tao took approximately 18 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 80 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 130 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
- The film contains approximately 2184 individual shots.
- The costume department created over 477 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 2023, when this film is released:
- Artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly integrated into daily life and creative industries.
- Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Journey To The West: Ask Tao shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Giwaku, which focuses more on action than character development, Journey To The West: Ask Tao subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Prince and the Coral Sea and The Shoemaker and the Elves explore similar territory, Journey To The West: Ask Tao stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 16, 2023
- Runtime: 1h 20m
