The Great Wall (2016), directed by Zhang Yimou, is a visually striking fantasy-action film set during ancient China. Starring Matt Damon, the movie blends Chinese mythology with Hollywood action sensibilities, creating a unique hybrid between historical epic and monster movie.
The story follows William (Matt Damon) and Tovar (Pedro Pascal), two European mercenaries seeking gunpowder in China. They stumble upon the Great Wall and are captured by a secretive military order known as the Nameless Order, who defend the wall from a mysterious threat. The threat turns out to be an army of monstrous, lizard-like creatures called the Taotie, which emerge every 60 years to ravage humanity. The Nameless Order has trained for decades to fight these creatures, and William finds himself reluctantly joining their battle for survival.
One of the key themes of the movie is the clash between different cultures and the gradual understanding that arises from cooperation. William, initially a self-interested outsider, gradually learns the values of loyalty, honor, and teamwork from the Nameless Order. This development is mirrored by his evolving relationship with Commander Lin Mae (Jing Tian), a fierce warrior who leads the resistance against the Taotie. Together, they strategize to take down the Queen Taotie, who controls the entire horde.
Visually, The Great Wall is a spectacle, featuring vibrant color palettes and elaborate battle sequences. Zhang Yimou’s signature style is evident in the way the Nameless Order uses choreographed formations and vividly colored armor. However, the film received mixed reviews, with some praising its action and visuals while others critiqued its thin plot and underdeveloped characters. Despite the controversy, The Great Wall stands out as a bold experiment in East-West collaboration, offering a fantasy-filled reimagining of one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.