screenshots / Warriors of the Rainbow: Seediq Bale / 2011 ARS Film Production

Based on true events in Taiwan history, the film recounts the Musha Incident (also known as the Wushe Rebellion) which occurred due to the long-term oppression of the island's aboriginal tribes by the Japanese authorities who ruled between 1895 and 1945.

The full 4 hours and 36 minute version of this film was shown in Taiwan in 2 parts: The Rainbow Bridge (Part 1) and The Sun Flag (part 2).

At the time, the film was the most expensive production in Taiwanese cinema history and has been compared to the 1992 film version of The Last of the Mohicans.

Directed by Wei Te-sheng, the film stars Nolay Piho, Yuki Daki and Umin Boya. It was co-produced by John Woo, director of 1993's Hard Target starring Jean-Claude Van Damme.

Filming took place in Linkou, New Taipei City, Taiwan. A film set recreating a Wushe Village in the 1930s was later opened to visitors after production was completed.

The cast and crew filmed scenes on both a slippery mountain slope and in a river with the actors wearing little more than a loincloth. Injuries were frequent and often weather conditions were challenging due to rain and coldness.

Other reported problems during production included the actors keeping physically in shape for continuity and adjusting their wardrobes to protect privacy.

The 4.5 hour international version is avaliable on blu-ray from Well Go USA Entertainment in a 2-disc set.