In addition to being a superb film--with stunning visuals, an uplifting plot, and superior performances all around--this film also provides audiences with a wonderful window into the history of the development of Chinese Buddhism. The main character's own personal spiritual development actually parallels several centuries of Chinese history--what a subtle genius this director is!! As we follow the General's progress---from a superficial adherence to the rules and forms of Buddhist practice, through his initial explorations of Pure Land doctrine, and finally on to his confrontation with his own inner flaws as he truly embraces Chan's paradoxical koans and teachings---we also follow the forms of traditional Buddhist development from 4th through 9th century China.This is not only a cinematic triumph, it is also a spiritual gift to the rest of us. I use it in all of the Buddhism courses I teach.

This excellent film gives viewers an entry into some of China's religious cultural traditions--from the point of view of a very irreligious man. Beginning in a traditional Confucian setting, the film follows a successful military man as he finds himself at the mercy of the fickle politics that dominate the court of the T'ang Dynasty. Inadvertently manipulated into betraying some of the most fundamental values of Confucian virtue and filial piety, the main character is forced to go into hiding, taking refuge in a Buddhist monastary. Of course, "taking refuge" is a pun--for that is what it is called when a person converts to Buddhism--but for the central character it is quite literal.As he continues to live in his new environment, the former general finds himself struggling with profound inner questions about the kind of life he has lead up until now. Throughout the course of the film, even as he continuously tries to flee his former life, he is forced to confront and deal with the consequences of his many past actions. He learns the truth of the Buddhist teachings as, one by one, all the things that he held dear--his family, his lover, his pride--are taken from him.This is truly a sublime film that can speak to audiences on many levels: as beautiful cinema, as great art, as engrossing entertainment, and as an opportunity to reflect on some substantial questions.(P.S. This film also contains the most visually stunning sex scene I have ever seen.)

Although I have quite a lot knowledge of Chinese history, it does not help me understanding any part of this film. All the actors behaved strangely, seems to me that they were born on another planet. For example, no one answers other people's questions directly. The mood of this film overall is stressful, non-interesting.

"Temptation of a Monk" has a bit of everything. It starts out as a dry morality tale of a kingdom collapsing under historical duress. Here it is pretty and easily mimics Chen Kaige. It then turns into a wandering ronin movie with comedic touches and low culture carnival. But then our hero, the exiled and chased bodyguard, hides in a monastery and brings violence and sex that threaten the spiritual lessons of the cloistered environment. And so on.This film manages to make numerous changes of course and imitates almost every genre of historical Chinese filmmaking. From the high culture ideal of the court to the equal severity of the cloister to the comedic about face of the hot-tub scene, director Law shows a playful seriousness and the power of mimicry as she rapidly changes forms--even as the film heads towards a seemingly inevitable spaghetti eastern showdown replete with fire and destruction to make Clint Eastwood blush. That is, if Clint hadn't already blushed at the fabulously hetero sex scene. Stoic lust never looked so good, or so demanding.The acting is very strong; the cinematography first-class and often breathtaking with its numerous different landscapes and set constructions. And the battle scenes are of course expertly delivered.SUM: This film is knowledgeable fun for those who know the high forms of Asian cinema but who want the swords put to good, if tasteful, use. Deserved winner of numerous Hong Kong film awards 8.5/10