"Hero" is a Chinese martial arts film directed by Zhang Yimou, released in 2002. The film is set during the Warring States period of ancient China and tells the story of a nameless warrior (played by Jet Li) who is granted an audience with the King of Qin (played by Chen Daoming). The warrior recounts his past and his encounters with three assassins: Broken Sword (Tony Leung Chiu-wai), Flying Snow (Maggie Cheung), and Sky (Donnie Yen).
As the warrior narrates his story, different perspectives and versions of events unfold, revealing complex relationships, motivations, and political intrigue. The film explores themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the cost of power. The intricate and visually stunning martial arts choreography, combined with vibrant cinematography, contributes to the film's artistic and cinematic appeal.
"Hero" received widespread acclaim for its breathtaking visuals, compelling storytelling, and impressive martial arts sequences. It was a commercial success both in China and internationally. The film's success helped bring Chinese martial arts cinema to a global audience and further established director Zhang Yimou's reputation as a master filmmaker.
The film was also submitted as China's official entry for the Best Foreign Language Film category at the Academy Awards and received a nomination for Best Foreign Language Film at the 2003 Oscars. "Hero" remains influential in the martial arts film genre and is often regarded as a masterpiece of Chinese cinema.