Jie Mi (2024)

Decoded: A Slow-Burn Spy Drama with Stunning Visuals

"Decoded" (2024) is a IMAX visually rich Chinese period drama that blends espionage, war, and personal struggle. Directed by Chen Sicheng and adapted from Mai Jia's novel, the film stars Liu Haoran as Rong Jinzhen, a socially withdrawn math prodigy recruited during the WWII era to break complex enemy codes. Set in the shadowy world of spies and cipher warfare, the film unfolds with a sense of slow-burning tension and intellectual curiosity.

The story dives into the world of cryptography, centered around Rong, an autistic genius drawn into the top-secret world of Unit 701. Tasked with decoding the infamous "Purple Cipher" and later the "Black Cipher," Rong finds himself entangled in national security matters with global stakes. Supporting performances from actors like John Cusack and Daniel Wu add depth and international flair, while the backdrop of the Cold War and shifting alliances raises the stakes dramatically.

Liu Haoran gives a performance that’s soft-spoken but emotionally charged. He captures Rong’s inner world—his social struggles, his brilliance, and his vulnerability—through gentle gestures, whispered lines, and minimal eye contact. Reviewers note that this is one of Liu’s most challenging roles, and while not flashy, it’s a deeply human portrayal that resonates with viewers who appreciate subtlety.

That said, Liu’s performance has drawn mixed reactions. While some critics felt he nailed the character's complexity, others believed he was overshadowed by the more expressive and charismatic John Cusack. Still, Liu’s restrained style, reminiscent of Russell Crowe in "A Beautiful Mind", gives Rong Jinzhen a quiet power that slowly grows on the audience.

The makeup and production design play a key role in grounding the film in its historical setting. Overseen by Li Zhou and Han Zhong, the visual style avoids cliché period looks and instead opts for realism that doesn’t distract from the story. Everything from age makeup to costume design feels intentionally subtle, helping viewers stay immersed in the timeline that spans the 1940s to 1960s.

Critically, "Decoded" received mixed but mostly respectable reviews. IMDb users gave it a 5.7/10, pointing to pacing issues, especially in the second half. However, many praised the visuals, the performance of the lead actors, and the immersive production design. Some thought it aimed too high, comparing it to "Oppenheimer" or "The Imitation Game", but felt it fell short in narrative focus.

Despite its flaws, the film stands out for its ambition and emotional core. Reviewers like Sino-Cinema appreciated its intellectual depth and compelling character moments, particularly the mentor-student bond and Rong’s personal evolution. While it might not be a box office juggernaut, its RMB334 million gross shows decent audience interest.

In conclusion, "Decoded" is a thoughtful, slow-burning drama that rewards patient viewers. With Liu Haoran’s nuanced lead, immersive visuals, and a touch of philosophical weight, it's a worthy watch for fans of spy thrillers and period dramas. Just don’t expect nonstop action—this one’s more about inner battles than gunfire.

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a good but tiring movie

one of the movies that is hard for me to explain, I try to explain it but I feel empty-headed, might because I still lack insight into it. but still gonna try to explain

its start with a very hard-to-understand scene. because at the beginning it tells the story of Rong's family and their relationship with Dream Interpreter, I don't really understand this part because it's too fast. but finally got the hook when Xiao Lili realized Jinzhen's talent and bring his home

and after that the story start flowed easily. this movie even though at the beginning it was like a flashback POV from another character, but its actually Jinzhen's POV

Our wallflower, Rong Jinzhen. well portrayed because his appearance suit a picture of math genius

this movie is also very epic in terms of cinematography, they break the wall with so many 'weird' but 'out-of-box' style of shot. the depiction of dreams experienced by Rong Jinzhen and Liseiwicz also often makes my head hurt :)

the focus of this film is ultimately not just Jinzhen's genius, but the dynamics of the characters while he tries to decipher, and the competition between Jinzhen and Leisewicz.

Leisewicz even said "Don't do Deciphering, because it will drive you crazy"

with so many numbers, conflicts, and dreams, you can imagine how complicated Rong Jinzhen's head is. and don't forget this is set in the 1940s, a time of war & Chinese revolution. with so much propaganda, spying, missions. complete headache 😭

although heavy, but strangely addictive. the pace is solid, very detailed, and every scene makes you curious about what this is all about

the confusion between dreams and reality, plus Jinzhen's iconic action of playing with lamp, is a distinctive feature of this film

I was actually curious about dream interpretation, because he could dream that deep that he could jump to a certain conclusion

I also thought about what would happen to him without dream interpretation, and it turned out to really happen. you all need to watch until the credit scene ⚠️

my impression of this film is 'just watch it once' because it could be like Rong Jinzhen who gets stressed about ciphers and dreams

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