Embark on a journey through time with our curated selection of melodramatic films set in Ancient China. These films not only offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Chinese history and culture but also weave intricate tales of love, passion, and sacrifice. Perfect for those who appreciate historical settings intertwined with romantic narratives, this collection promises to captivate and transport you to a bygone era.

The Empress and the Warriors (2008)
Description: A historical drama where an empress, disguised as a man, falls in love with a warrior during a time of political upheaval.
Fact: The film features intense action sequences alongside its romantic plot, showcasing the versatility of its lead actress, Donnie Yen.


The Assassin (2015)
Description: A visually poetic film where an assassin's mission is complicated by her past love, set in the Tang Dynasty.
Fact: The film won the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival for its director, Hou Hsiao-Hsien.


A Chinese Ghost Story (1987)
Description: This film blends romance with supernatural elements, telling the story of a tax collector who falls for a ghost in ancient China.
Fact: It was a major hit in Hong Kong and has spawned several sequels and remakes.


House of Flying Daggers (2004)
Description: A visually stunning film where a love triangle unfolds against the backdrop of a rebellion in the Tang Dynasty, blending martial arts with romance.
Fact: The film's dance scene was choreographed by Zhang Yimou, who also directed the film, and it took months to perfect.


The Banquet (2006)
Description: A tale of political intrigue and forbidden love set during the Tang Dynasty, where a royal banquet becomes the stage for a deadly power struggle.
Fact: The film was inspired by Shakespeare's "Hamlet" and features elaborate costumes and sets designed to reflect the opulence of the Tang Dynasty.


Curse of the Golden Flower (2006)
Description: Set during the Tang Dynasty, this film explores the dark undercurrents of a royal family's life, with a central focus on the Empress's forbidden love affair.
Fact: The film's production design is renowned for its lavish sets and costumes, with over 30,000 costumes made for the extras.


The Warlords (2007)
Description: While primarily a war epic, it includes a poignant love story amidst the chaos of the Taiping Rebellion, showcasing the complexities of loyalty and love.
Fact: The film was a collaboration between Hong Kong and China, featuring top stars from both regions.


The Promise (2005)
Description: This epic fantasy romance tells the story of a slave girl who falls in love with a general, set against a backdrop of magical realism and ancient Chinese folklore.
Fact: The film boasts stunning visual effects and was one of the most expensive Chinese films ever made at the time of its release.


The Legend of the Black Scorpion (2006)
Description: A martial arts melodrama where a love story unfolds amidst a quest for vengeance in ancient China.
Fact: The film features intricate fight choreography and a plot that intertwines romance with revenge.


The Love Eterne (1963)
Description: A classic tale of star-crossed lovers, based on the Chinese opera "Butterfly Lovers," set in ancient China.
Fact: It's considered one of the greatest Chinese films of all time and has influenced many subsequent adaptations.
