The record seems within "Crouching Tiger's" reach, but an article from the New York Daily News says that Sony Pictures Classics, the U.S. distributor for "Crouching Tiger," has an odd, multi-pronged marketing plan for the film. Multiple marketing campaigns for the same film often confuse audiences, which is generally a bad thing unless the movie is directed by David Lynch.

The marketing plan is risky, but Sony deserves credit for trying. The studio is targeting two diametrically opposed groups—art house audiences and action fans—with markedly different ad campaigns. The arty campaign, the News reports, will play up director Ang Lee's credentials ("Sense and Sensibility" and "The Ice Storm" were critically praised), while the action campaign will focus on "Crouching Tiger's" stunning martial arts sequences. To put it another way, the artsy ads will have flighty music and sprawling vistas while the action ads will mix roundhouse kicks with a smokin' techno groove.

© 2000 Sony Pictures Classics

Erroneous comparisons aside, "Crouching Tiger" is an epic love story that mixes fighting and fantasy elements. It's also a departure for director Ang Lee. Best known for directing "The Ice Storm" and "Sense and Sensibility," this is Lee's first foray into the martial arts arena. Lee's genre may be different, but the female-centric focus he's displayed in previous films is continued in "Crouching Tiger." What this means is that many of "Crouching Tiger's" fight scenes pit women against other women. On the surface this sounds like a feeble attempt to be different, but the inclusion of the exceptional Michelle Yeoh ("Tomorrow Never Dies") in many of these scenes should elevate them beyond mere novelty. In addition to Yeoh, American audiences will also recognize Chow Yun Fat ("The Replacement Killers," "Anna and the King") in a supporting role.

The biggest obstacle facing "Crouching Tiger" is its use of English subtitles. Americans like their movies easy and comfortable, so there's a question as to how willing they'll be to read their way through the movie. It's a risky endeavor, but an early "Crouching Tiger" review at Upcomingmovies.com says the film's action should compensate for subtitle hurdles.