SINGAPORE : They say slow and steady wins the race. To director John Woo, it seems that is how to win a battle, too.

"Red Cliff", Woo’s latest masterpiece, took three years and cost a record US$80 million (S$109 million) to make, beating The Promise to become the most expensive Chinese-language movie ever. Given its historic background, sophisticated story, complex sub-plots and relationships, the movie will be released in two parts in Asia — a la Kill Bill — with the second instalment slated for January 2008. Foreign markets will get acondensed, two-hour version.

Based on actual historical events that happened during China’s most famous battle — The Battle of Red Cliff — and the popular 14th century novel "Romance of the Three Kingdoms", this period epic is set in a divided China during the Han Dynasty in 208AD. It tells an intricate and intriguing tale of love and the art of war.

Tony Leung plays Zhou Yu, the capable, intelligent military strategist. He is complemented by Takeshi Kaneshiro’s clear-headed and witty advisor, Zhuge Liang. Although Leung reliably puts in a great performance, it falls a little short of expectations, especially now that we know what he’s capable of as seen in "Lust, Caution". Still, he steals the thunder from his prettyboy co-star Kaneshiro, who only has to smile and look pensive throughout the film. And with that faux beard, he's not even that pretty anymore. Pity.

To say that "Red Cliff" is the Chinese blockbuster of the year would be an understatement. It boasts a breathtaking battle scene at the tail-end of this instalment, and features a star-studded cast from Hong Kong, China, Taiwan and even Japan, including a bland film debut by Taiwanese model-actress Lin Chiling.

Woo’s return to Chinese movies after his foray into Hollywood is a dream-come-true for fans of the novel. He should give himself a pat on the back for doing a credible job.

Then again, maybe he should wait. After all, only half the battle is won. - TODAY/sh