John Woo‘s last film, the sprawling epic RED CLIFF, was an amazing visual spectacle set 1800 years ago featuring all sorts of massive battle sequences the director is best known for. The almost five hour film was split into two parts which are well worth the time if you are so inclined. While Woo did co-direct a film in 2010 (REIGN OF ASSASSINS), THE CROSSING is his first solo film in almost six years.
Another epic historical drama, THE CROSSING is set during 1949 and follows three couples as they try to escape from their war-torn country. The international teaser definitely plays up both the romantic aspects of the film as well as the war sequences and explosions as only a master like John Woo can bring us. Split into two films like RED CLIFF, THE CROSSING looks ambitious and pretty damn spectacular.
And then we see the sinking boat at the end. Barely referenced in the preceding minute-long teaser is the culmination of the film’s plot which is the tragic sinking of a ship carrying those trying to escape the war. Based on a true story, THE CROSSING will chronicle how these characters converge at the tragic capsizing of the ship that cost 1500 lives. This, my friends, is going to be John Woo‘s TITANIC.
While it may not be as visually sumptuous as a big budget Hollywood epic, THE CROSSING still looks very well made. I get the sense we are in store for some serious melodrama, but it will be worth it to see how John Woo stages a sinking ocean liner. I am excited!
THE CROSSING has no domestic release date yet but debuts in China on December 2, 2014.