The original Chinese Ghost Story is definitely a classic-- one of the fantasy greats. A star-crossed wuxia love story between a bumbling young bureaucrat and a reluctant demon, punctuated with bad-ass demon hunter action.
Unfortunately, the original is also pretty dated at this point. It would be hard to find a new audience able to appreciate it.
No, Enchanting Phantom can't quite live up to the original, at least as it exists in the minds of those enough lucky enough to have enjoyed it in its day. But that doesn't mean EP isn't a good movie. It's not great, but it's good.
It does suffer from the same problems typical to modern Chinese fantasy. There's too much CG. There's too much focus on action at the expense of character. It often feels like Chinese fantasy directors would rather be making video games. But if EP suffers from these issues, it suffers from them much less than other recent Chinese fantasy fare.
Meanwhile, the compelling love story is still there, and the action is enjoyable even if overemphasized. More, the imagery is incredible.
Recommended for new fans of Chinese fantasy (adult or child); recommended for fans of the original. It won't be unforgettable, but it's an enjoyable watch.
Unfortunately, the original is also pretty dated at this point. It would be hard to find a new audience able to appreciate it.
No, Enchanting Phantom can't quite live up to the original, at least as it exists in the minds of those enough lucky enough to have enjoyed it in its day. But that doesn't mean EP isn't a good movie. It's not great, but it's good.
It does suffer from the same problems typical to modern Chinese fantasy. There's too much CG. There's too much focus on action at the expense of character. It often feels like Chinese fantasy directors would rather be making video games. But if EP suffers from these issues, it suffers from them much less than other recent Chinese fantasy fare.
Meanwhile, the compelling love story is still there, and the action is enjoyable even if overemphasized. More, the imagery is incredible.
Recommended for new fans of Chinese fantasy (adult or child); recommended for fans of the original. It won't be unforgettable, but it's an enjoyable watch.