Ang Lee's oeuvre traverses nations and cultures, but is united by a sensitivity that is intrinsically Chinese yet rendered universal by a special touch uniquely Lee's, which Chinese critics call "Confucian."

 

 

Pushing Hands (1992)

 

Lee's directorial debut tackles cultural conflicts head-on as he depicts a retired tai chi master clashing with his American daughter-in-law in their New York home.

 

The Wedding Banquet (1993)

 

On top of the national and linguistic divide, Lee steps up a notch by adding a sexual identity mix. And he handles it with a kind of humor and sensitivity rarely seen in gay cinema, if such a genre exists.

 

Eat Drink Man Woman (1994)

 

Generational discord is depicted with such minutiae and loving care that is almost embraced. The most outwardly "Confucian" of his work, this ensemble film features narrative mastery and character studies in perfect balance.

 

Sense and Sensibility (1995)

 

Lee moves effortlessly into the territory of early 19-century England, infusing this impeccably pedigreed literary adaptation of a Jane Austin classic with a transcendence that turns the comedy of manners into a Peking Opera sleeve dance.

 

The Ice Storm (1997)

 

Lee brings the same Zen-like cool-headedness to a tumultuous period in suburban America, where social mores are pummeled and shaped by a storm of outside forces.

 

Ride with the Devil (1999)

 

Lee's further foray into American history provides a contrast with the more usual Civil War epics like The Patriot, substituting rousing flag-waving with contemplation.

 

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)

 

A martial arts movie that is so poetic and lyrical that it revolutionizes the genre, opening the vista for international filmgoers to the allure of Chinese cinema and opening doors for others like Zhang Yimou's Hero.

 

 

Hulk (2003)

 

The gentle master meets his biggest challenge when breaking into the wham-bang cosmos of American comic action. The result is mixed as some laud his depiction of internal repression while others see it as tedious and turgid.

 

Brokeback Mountain (2005)

 

Whether one deems it breaking thematic ground or just another heartbreaking love story, the art of Ang Lee shimmers serenely when it explores complex relationships and captures subtle moments that elevate an otherwise niche film to landmark status.

 

(China Daily January 16, 2006)