The inspired casting of Leslie Cheung as the always vulnerable Douzi/Dieyi gives the film a soft, broken heartedness that stayed with me for days after I first saw it (some years ago now).

Zhang Fengyi is quite perfect for the role of Shitou/Xiaolou, bringing a masculinity that balances Cheung's femininity very well.

Of course, Gong Li is in fine form, but though her role is pivotal to the outcome of the relationship, she is for once overshadowed by the relationship of the men.

Memorable and at times unbearably beautiful, this is a milestone in film-making history. Absoultely essential viewing for anyone who takes film seriously.