The Assassins 2012
Set against the sweeping backdrop of ancient China's Three Kingdoms era, *The Assassins* (2012) follows the weary Cao Cao in his twilight years, as he reflects on his legendary military strategies, his complex romantic entanglements, and the strained bond he shared with his son.
Director: Zhao Linshan
Cast
Chow Yun-Fat
Chancellor Cao Cao
Liu Yifei
Ling Ju / Diao Chan
Hiroshi Tamaki
Mu Shun
Alec Su
Emperor Xian of Han
Annie Shizuka Inoh
Empress Fu Shou
Yao Lu
Imperial Physician Ji Ben
Ni Dahong
Lord Fu Wan
Bao Jianfeng
Lu Bu
Chi Cheng
Xu Chu
Qu Quancheng
Cao Zhi
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Assassins (2012) about?
This historical drama explores the later years of Cao Cao, a brilliant but controversial warlord who assesses his life's triumphs and failures. Through flashbacks and introspection, the film examines his military tactics, romantic entanglements, and strained relationship with his son, all set against the turbulent backdrop of the Three Kingdoms period.
Who directed The Assassins?
The Assassins (2012) was directed by Zhao Linshan, a filmmaker known for blending historical drama with emotional depth and visual storytelling.
Who stars in The Assassins?
The film features a powerhouse cast including Chow Yun-Fat as Cao Cao, Liu Yifei, Hiroshi Tamaki, Alec Su, and Annie Shizuka Inoh.
Is The Assassins (2012) worth watching?
While the IMDb rating is unrated, *The Assassins* offers a rich, atmospheric take on historical drama with strong performances from its lead actors. Fans of grand historical epics and character-driven narratives will find plenty to appreciate, though its slower pacing may not appeal to everyone seeking pure action.
How long is The Assassins?
*The Assassins* (2012) has a runtime of 107 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About The Assassins (2012) — Ancient intrigue, military genius, and the cost of legacy
Set against the sweeping backdrop of ancient China's Three Kingdoms era, *The Assassins* (2012) follows the weary Cao Cao in his twilight years, as he reflects on his legendary military strategies, his complex romantic entanglements, and the strained bond he shared with his son. Directed by Zhao Linshan, this historical drama weaves together political intrigue and personal introspection, creating an atmospheric journey through power, loyalty, and regret. With a stellar cast led by Chow Yun-Fat, Liu Yifei, and Hiroshi Tamaki, the film balances grand historical spectacle with intimate character study, offering a nuanced portrait of a figure both feared and flawed.
The story unfolds in a world where ambition clashes with humanity, as Cao Cao's strategic brilliance once shaped an empire but now leaves him isolated in his later years. Zhao Linshan crafts a visually rich tapestry, blending sweeping battle sequences with quiet, reflective moments that underscore the emotional weight of legacy. Liu Yifei and Chow Yun-Fat deliver performances that ground the epic's grandeur in deeply human terms, making *The Assassins* (2012) a compelling watch for fans of historical drama and character-driven storytelling alike.
