To make "The Matrix" (1999) and its sequels, the Wachowski brothers hired legendary Hong Kong action director Yuen Woo-Ping as a fight choreographer so Michelle Yeoh's scorpion kick from Mr. Yuen's "Tai-Chi Master" (1993) became Carrie-Anne Moss's scorpion kick in "The Matrix Reloaded" (2003).

WSJ: Hollywood's New Kick: Why Everybody Is Kung Fu Fighting

While the action is spectacular -- after all, the choreography was handled by kung-fu master Yuen Woo-ping, whose credits include Drunken Master and most recently The Matrix -- what really makes Crouching Tiger a gem is the wonderful blend of nostalgia, stunning cinematography, a fast-paced plot, and -- yes -- a good story.

CNN: From Our Correspondent: Movie with a Message