ASHES OF TIME: REDUX — CANNES 2008

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Wong Kar-wai's reworking of his 1994 martial arts fantasy film is a visually sumptuous movie filled with a palate of iridescent gemstone colors.

Inspired by Louis Cha's novel "The Eagle-Shooting Heroes," converging narratives are broken up by seasonal sections.

After being rejected by his lover, Ou-yang Feng (Leslie Chung) moves to a desert from which he hires swordsmen to assassinate his perceived rivals.

Feng's revenge targets his own heart.

"Ashes of Time" is an absurdist split-personality look at ancient philosophical ideas about things like killing a former best friend.

Kar-wai's lush compositions are breathtaking for their expressive color and energy. Alien landscapes come alive.

Wong Kar-wai has shaved about five minutes off of the original, and replaced the music with the help of Wu Tong and cello work from Yo-Yo Ma.

So long as you go into this film with the intention of letting it wash over you like a symphonic operatic piece, you will enjoy it as the cinematic treat Wong Kar-wai intends.

Enjoy.

Rated R. 93 mins.