Being Too Conservative Won't Do

As Ang Lee's Chinese-language martial arts film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon received a limited release in North America, aside from the most famous member of the creative team, Ang Lee himself, only "Bond Girl" Michelle Yeoh had some name recognition;

Yet after Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon was released, it caught many critics by surprise, giving them the fresh experience of rediscovering Chinese martial arts films.

The New York Times: "While appreciating Chinese culture, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon also allows viewers to savor Shakespearean tragedy."

Chicago Tribune: "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is the most exhilarating martial arts film to date."

The Hollywood Reporter: "The fight choreography in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is astounding and uniquely styled. In addition, the film's score provides an excellent complement to the storytelling;"

"It is a compelling film about love, responsibility, and sacrifice, superbly made and incredible."

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon had already been released in Asia, as well as in some smaller countries and regions in Europe. But aside from its decent performance in Japan, its overall box office was average;

North America, as the main market, would be the next focus for Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. They would let word of mouth build during this period, then expand its release at the beginning of next year!

On December 8, the Florida Supreme Court once again ruled in favor of continuing the recount, holding that every ballot had to be respected;

However, the Florida Supreme Court's ruling was quickly appealed by George W. Bush's camp to the U.S. Federal Supreme Court.

On December 12, the nine federal justices voted 5–4 to halt the recount. The core reasoning behind the Federal Supreme Court's ruling was that the differing standards for the recount violated the Constitution's Equal Protection Clause!

With the U.S. Federal Supreme Court's final ruling