Empire Of Silver

Chinese Love Story
Watched "Empire of Silver" yesterday and absolutely enjoyed it. I can't say I understood it all, the Chinese financial period of 1899 is not something I am very familiar with, but the love story embedded in the movie is a tragic one. This is a beautifully made movie -- majestic scenery and vistas. While done with Chinese subtitles, which means you really have to pay attention to the movie -- you get a glimpse of the culture and importance of silver during that period of time.

A young man (the Third Master)from a banking family is thrust into a role of managing a banking fortune amid major financial unrest in the country. He must choose between honoring the righteous path of his ancestors or protecting his family fortune. Tangled in this drama is the love between Third and a young woman, initially promised to Third as a wife but taken by his father instead. His first love is now his stepmother. The fate of the banking empire and its most powerful family now lies with...

Transport back to Qing China
Film did a good job of placing the viewer in late Qing dynasty China and demonstrating the uncertainties and difficult times that accompanied the fall of the emperor. The hutongs and houses along with the costumes were very accurate and gave a visual image to those who have studies Modern Chinese History.

Historical Entertainment
This was hands-down a very interesting movie and unlike anything else I've seen before. It gets bonus points for being different and educational at the same time.

It was a historical look into China, the customs, their actions, their silver to paper transition, the plight of the people. There's much to learn in this one. It made me think of things I've never thought of before. I was also intrigued with how...no matter what they do to each other, this family sticks together.

Old Master is stuck in old ways and trying to get Third Master on board and keeps stressing the need to maintain their legacy. But Third Master, he thinks differently and wants to improve the plight of the people...not right away, mind you, but this is a slow revelation and trust me, this family needs improving. I mean, really, depriving an entire nation of salt until they're near death, just to sell it?

I liked Third Master, though I can't say I always I understood him or the...

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