Raise the Red Lantern (DVD, 2007)

This is a film that is almost beyond description in its evocation of 1920s China, and the political intrigue within a harem maintained by a wealthy warlord. Gong Li, possibly China's most familiar and accomplished actress, is simply astounding as a new concubine in the lord's household. The film was directed by Zhang Yimou ("Hero," "House of Flying Daggers," "Curse of the Golden Flower"). While devoid of the special effects of his later films, "Lantern" is an amazing glimpse into a forbidden China that was initially banned by the Red Chinese government. Some critics have described it as an indictment of communist authoritarianism, but it isn't necessary to extract anything more from the film's story of jealousy, palace intrigue, and and its astounding period locations, stunning costume design and transcendent performances. A truly great film by one of the world's best film directors.