Home Equity Line of

Home Equity Loans/Lines Overview Fixed-Rate Second Mortgage Home Equity Line of Credit Visa Platinum PowerHouse Loan Serving Members Since 1936 ONLINE BANKING Mortgage Calculator Rates & Terms Equifax: Get Your Credit Report New Account Identification Fixed-Rate Second Mortgage When you need money, the equity in your home can be one of your greatest financial resources. And with a Fixed-Rate Second Mortgage, you can borrow up to 100% of your home's value. You can use this equity in your home to pay off high-rate credit cards, make homeimprovements, finance your child's education, or finally take your dream vacation. Low, fixed rates Interest potentially tax deductible * Fixed terms up to 25 years Available for both owner occupied and non-owner occupied properties No maximum loan amount No pre-payment penalty Borrow as little at $10,000 Apply online! [ Back To Top ] Interest-Only Home Equity Line of Credit With USEs Interest-Only Home Equity Line of Credit, you can make the big purchases or investments you have been dreaming about while paying only the interest on a monthly basis. And with an introductory rate as low as only 6.50% APR* , you can get the cash you need for one low monthly payment. You can access your Interest-Only HELOC through a checkbook or ATM card. Low, variable rates APR as low as 6.50% for the first six months * Credit lines up to $500,000 No points, fees, or upfront costs ** Checkbook and ATM access No annual fee Primary residence or rental property - same low rate One of the industrys lowest floors (1.00%) and ceilings(11.99%) Tax-deductible interest in most cases *** Apply online! *Rates effective as of 12/1/2005. An introductory Annual Percentage Rate (APR) as low as Prime Rate minus 0.50% is valid for the first 6 months from the date of loan origination. Currently, your discounted rate would be as low as 6.50% APR. Thereafter, your rate may be as low as the Prime Rate, as published in The Wall Street Journal, which is currently 7.00%. Prime Rate may change at any time, although your rate is subject to change quarterly. The maximum APR is 11.99%. The $35 Annual Fee is waived for the first year and assessed on your anniversary date any year thereafter when your balance is less than $10,000. To qualify for the lowest rate, members must have above-average established credit and meet certain loan-to-value ratios. For loan amounts in excess of $250,000, the borrower is responsible for paying all actual costs incurred, based on the loan amount established. Offer available for new home equity lines of credit on both owner- and non-owner occupied, 1-4 unit properties, in the state of California. If the loan is closed within the first three years from the origination date, an Early Account Closure Fee may be assessed on loans with credit limits of $250,000 or less. A Reconveyance Fee will be charged when your loan is paid in full. Consult your tax advisor regarding the tax deductibility of interest. Certain limitations apply. Loans subject to credit approval. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change without notice. [ Back To Top ] Home Equity Line of Credit Platinum Visa With USE's Home Equity Line of Credit Platinum Visa, you can access the equity in your home with the convenience of a Platinum Visa credit card. And, at an introductory rate as low as only 6.50% APR * , it's the low-rate opportunity of a lifetime. Use your Home Equity Line of Credit for just about anything, like purchasing a new car, paying for your child's education, taking your dream vacation, or remodeling your home. Low, variable rates APR as low as 6.50% for the first six months * Credit lines up to $500,000 No points, fees, or upfront costs * Platinum Visa, check, or cash access No annual fee * Primary residence or rental property - same low rate 100% tax-deductible interest * One of the industry's lowest floors (1.00%) and ceilings (11.99%) Apply online! For important disclosure information, click here . *Rates effective as of 12/1/2005. An introductory Annual Percentage Rate (APR) as low as Prime Rate minus 0.50% is valid for the first 6 months from the date of loan origination. Currently, your discounted rate would be as low as 6.50% APR. Thereafter, your rate may be as low as the Prime Rate, as published in The Wall Street Journal, which is currently 7.00%. Prime Rate may change at any time, although your rate is subject to change quarterly. The maximum APR is 11.99%. The $35 Annual Fee is waived for the first year and assessed on your anniversary date any year thereafter when your balance is less than $10,000. To qualify for the lowest rate, members must have above-average established credit and meet certain loan-to-value ratios. For loan amounts in excess of $250,000, the borrower is responsible for paying all actual costs incurred, based on the loan amount established. Offer available for new home equity lines of credit on both owner- and non-owner occupied, 1-4 unit properties, in the state of California. If the loan is closed within the first three years from the origination date, an Early Account Closure Fee may be assessed on loans with credit limits of $250,000 or less. A Reconveyance Fee will be charged when your loan is paid in full. Consult your tax advisor regarding the tax deductibility of interest. Certain limitations apply. Loans subject to credit approval. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change without notice. [ Back To Top ] PowerHouse Loan The PowerHouse Loan is based on your creditworthiness not the equity in your home. Therefore, you can access the funds youneed even if you only recently purchased your home. Low, fixed rates Interest Potentially Tax Deductible * No appraisal required Borrow $5,000 to $15,000 5- to 7-year terms In most circumstances, funds can be available in as little as 10 days No pre-payment penalty Available on owner occupied properties only Apply online! Special Note: Even if you currently have a Home Equity Credit Line or Second Trust Deed with USE, you may still qualify for aPowerHouse Loan. However, if your equity credit line or second trust deed is held by another financial institution, we cannot arrangea PowerHouse Loan unless we pay off the existing loan. Owner-occupied residences only. [ Back To Top ] All loans are subject to approval. Home Equity and PowerHouse Loans are not available when your first mortgage has a balloon payment. California properties only. A fee will be charged for reconveyance when your loan is paid in full.*Please consult with your tax advisor for IRS guidelines on the deductibility of interest payments. Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) Platinum Visa * Annual Percentage Rate 6.50 % Variable Rate Information Annual Percentage Rate varies quarterly based on the Wall Street Journal Prime Rate plus a margin. Variable Rate not to exceed 11.99% or be less than 1.00%. Grace period for the repayment of the balance of purchases On new purchases paid in full by payment due date as set forth on your periodic statement. Method of computing the balance for purchases Average Daily Balance Method(including current transactions) Annual Fee $35.00. Waived for the first year; waived if balance is $10,000 or greater. Cash Advance Fee None Late Payment Charge $10.00 if your minimum monthly payment is more than 10 days late Overlimit Fee $10.00 for each billing cycle we receive a purchase or advance which causes you to be over the limit. Effective Date December 1, 2005 * Index of 7.00% - 0.50% = 6.50%. Index of 7.00% + 1.50% = 8.50%, effectiveDecember 1, 2005.Rates and Terms subject to change at any time. USE is an Equal Housing Lender [ Back To Top ]

Property Search

Find Your Unclaimed Property Finding and ClaimingYour Unclaimed Property NOTICE OF NAMES OF PERSONS APPEARING TO BE OWNERS OF ABANDONED PROPERTY Database Last Updated: November 1, 2005 Only unclaimed property records with a value of $25 or greater are included in the Treasury website database. If your name does not appear on this list and you have received an unclaimed property mail card notice, you may return the card along with required documentation or contact our office directly at 1-888-844-8400 or alaucpd@treasury.state.al.us There are three ways to find and claim yourUnclaimed Property: 1. Search the Unclaimed Property Database Online! This is the fastest and easiest way to find and claim your unclaimed property. Requires Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator Versions 4.0 or higher. (Get Microsoft Internet Explorer here . Get Netscape Navigator here .) Be sure to read the guidelines for a successful online search . Please Note: We are receiving a high volume of website visits and database inquiries, up to 6200 hits hourly. If your search results in error messages or no response from our server, please read the guidelines below and try your search again. 2. Call the Unclaimed Property Office Toll-Free (888) 844-8400 weekdays from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. 3. Mail Inquiry Form Opens in a separate window for printing and mailing ImportantGuidelines for Searching the Online Database Requires Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator Versions 4.0 or higher . (Get Microsoft Internet Explorer here . Get Netscape Navigator here .) You may search by Name or in combination with City, to display a more refined search. You must always make an entry in the "Name" box. Your entry in the "Name" box must be one of the following: Initial - "D" returns all records with last name starting with "D". Last name - "Doe" returns all records with last name "Doe". Last name and first name or first name initial, separated by a space (no commas!) - "Doe John" returns all records with last name "Doe" and first name "John"; "Doe J" returns all records with last name "Doe" and first names starting with "J".

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Welcome to Lightsite.net ENERGY STAR ® in the News What's going on with E NERGY S TAR ® in your community? Stay informed through stories from regional news clippings , energy newsbriefs from CON.WEB , and the U.S. EPA E NERGY S TAR ® News Room . NEWS ARTICLES CFL Sales Looking Bright, Even After Post-Energy Crisis Dip Customers Put a Spotlight on Energy Conservation Northwest Leads the Nation in Energy Savings Effort National Leader Whitman Accepts Charles H. Percy Award For the E NERGY S TAR ® Program E NERGY S TAR ® Helps America Keep Cool This Summer Regional News Clippings Each month the E NERGY S TAR ® Lighting Program features Northwest regional news stories about energy-efficiency from local papers. CFL Sales Looking Bright, Even After Post-Energy Crisis Dip Jim DiPeso for Con.Web Compact fluorescent lamps are holding on to an expanded beachhead in theresidential lighting market, even as recent sales have dipped from theirextraordinary high during the 2000-01 energy crisis, according to NorthwestEnergy Efficiency Alliance reports and industry observers. With energy off the front pages, ongoing consumer interest in reducingelectricity bills is likely to continue supporting CFL sales, the Alliancereported in a market evaluation study prepared by ECONorthwest in 2002. CFL bulb prices have fallen by about two-thirds since 1997, which isattracting more consumers, according to Costco, the region's leading CFL retailer. Increasing manufacturere interest in CFLs also is evident. CFLs, however, still account for a small share of the residential lightingmarket, and sustained high sales will be necessary to transform thehousehold lighting market, the market evaluation study reported. Even at the height of the energy crisis, with power shortages on the frontpages and a compact fluorescent discount coupon campaign in full swing, CFLsaccounted for only 11 percent of total Northwest light bulb sales, the studynoted. Fewer than 40 percent of households purchased even one CFL. Cost is still a significant barrier to expanded CFL sales. Quality alsoremains a concern, despite improvements "The product appears to be viable for some people for some applications,"said Ken Keating, Bonneville Power Administration market transformationcoordinator and Alliance board member. "Long term, there is still a lot moreenergy efficiency to be acquired in lighting. This is still a blip," Keatingsaid. Compact fluorescent market still small, but looking brighter. (Continuation from Home page) CFL Sales Down ... But Still Up Northwest sales of compact fluorescent bulbs are running at about 4 millionunits per year, said Marci Sanders, the Alliances residential lightingprogram coordinator. While sales have fallen from the estimated 6.7 millionsnapped up in the region during 2001, the volume is substantially higherthan the estimated 381,000 sold in 2000, according to Alliance figures. (Inaddition to the 6.7 million bulbs sold in 2001, utilities gave away anadditional 1.6 million that year, according to the market evaluation study.) The Alliance had expected 2002 CFL sales to reach 2.5 million, but an autumnbuying surge helped push the volume to 4 million, Sanders told the Allianceboard April 30. Northwest lighting sales typically rise in the fall, asdaylight noticeably diminishes. In addition, a national Energy Star CFLpromotion, Change a Light, was in full swing, Sanders said. Since 1997 the Alliance has sponsored a residential lighting program toboost sales of compact fluorescent lights and fixtures. Between 1997 and2000, manufacturers were given incentives through the compact fluorescentfixture and bulb programs to increase availability of CFLs and reduceprices, according to the market evaluation study. In 2000, the studycontinued, the programs were combined into one and revamped to emphasizemarketing partnerships with retailers and to support only EnergyStar-certified bulbs and fixtures. More than 1,000 Northwest retailers haveparticipated in CFL marketing activities. Nearly 90 utilities participated in a CFL coupon campaign funded by BPA andutilities during the boom year of 2001. Coupons accounted for nearly 40percent of CFL sales that year. The market evaluation study found evidence CFL sales can be sustainedwithout coupons. In a 2001 survey of 1,421 Northwest consumers (included inthe market evaluation study), 94 percent of respondents who had purchased aCFL said they would buy another even if coupons were unavailable. Sanders estimated that 75 percent to 80 percent of CFLs sold in 2002 werepurchased without coupons. "That is a very good sign," she said. The survey sample included 246 people who had purchased a CFL, 38 who hadreceived free CFLs from utilities, 316 who had purchased only incandescentbulbs in the three months preceding the survey, and 821 who were questionedabout CFL awareness. Another sign of market sustainability, the survey said, were the futureintentions of respondents who had purchased only incandescent bulbs. "Moresurprisingly, 64 percent of incandescent buyers indicated they intend topurchase a CFL in the next year. This is a strong potential indication ofthe sustainability of future CFL sales," the survey said. Efficiency Opportunity If so, there will be plenty of opportunity for CFLs to improve residentiallighting efficiency. The medium load forecast for the Northwest PowerPlanning Councils upcoming regional plan estimates that cost-effectiveresidential lighting efficiency potential will total an estimated 660average megawatts by 2025, said Tom Eckman, the councils conservationresources manager. Existing housing stock accounts for about 80 percent ofthat prospective resource, he added. That potential number doubled following a lighting log study carried out in160 homes by Tacoma Power, Eugene Water & Electric Board and other utilitiesin the late 1990s, Eckman said. The study found that homes have morelighting fixtures than previously thought and lights are being left onlonger. "We had an empirical basis to do a better forecast," Eckman noted. Falling Prices The consumer survey showed saving energy was the leading reason whyNorthwesterners bought CFLs in 2001. Even though energy no longer headlines the news, CFL energy savings remainattractive and falling product prices have helped the products hold theirown in the market, said Collin Cremo, assistant general manager for CostcosU.S. hardware purchasing division. "Pricing is going down and that is very positive for the consumer. You usedto pay $15.99 for a two-pack of bulbs. Now, you can get a four-pack for$11.99," Cremo said. The Alliance estimates average prices fell from $14-$28 per bulb in 1997 to$5-$10 in 2002. Large retailers such as Costco and Home Depot have led the market inoffering multibulb packages that have driven down prices, Sanders said.These two major retailers account for a significant share of Northwestsales, she said. In the consumer survey, 38 percent of CFL buyers indicated they hadpurchased the bulbs at a discount retailer. However, 35 percent said theynormally buy light bulbs at grocery stores, an indicator that supermarketscould be "an important retail target for increasing market penetration," thesurvey said. Manufacturer Interest The growing consumer interest in CFLs has attracted an influx ofmanufacturers to the market. Sanders said only 10 percent of the CFLs purchased in 2002 were made by thethree big multiproduct lighting companies--Philips, Osram Sylvania, and GE.Smaller manufacturers that sell only CFLs "are getting (shelf) placementwith better pricing because they are willing to cut deals with retailers,"Sanders said. Another reason CFLs are holding their own is the introduction of new bulbdesigns to suit consumer tastes. Keating said manufacturers are "responding to customer demands for productsthat fit in different applications. You can get bug lights, chandelierlights, recessed can lights, even green and red CFLs for holiday use. Youcan get really small ones. I have one that measures no more than 4 inchesfrom stem to stern." Keating said manufacturers understand they cant compete solely on price."They need to give customers something they can use." For example, consumers have asked for smaller bulbs, to which manufacturershave responded, said Matt Donati, CFL product manager for Philips Lightingin the U.S. "We sell eight-packs of 60-watt-equivalent lights that are small enough forlight bars in bathrooms," Cremo said. Donati believes consumers will be more receptive to CFLs that fit their ideaof what light bulbs are supposed to look like. "The key is to try to makethem as incandescent-appearing as possible," Donati said. "People see thespiral shape and it looks like curly fries. They ask, Whats that? If yougive them a bulb that looks more like a, quote, light bulb, they will bemore appealing." Philips Marathon family of compact fluorescents includes globe-like"A-shaped" bulbs that resemble incandescents, as well as conventionallydesigned CFLs. Sanders said Westinghouse plans to launch a "designer bulb" in differentcolors that will be specially suited to accent lighting typically providedby small halogen incandescent lights. Quality Issues Quality, however, remains a bugaboo afflicting the CFL market, Keating said.Despite continuing improvements, enough low-quality bulbs are on the marketthat the U.S. Department of Energy is concerned they reflect poorly on theEnergy Star label for energy-efficient consumer products, Keating said. Energy Star is a self-certification brand, so manufacturers are responsiblefor ensuring their products meet Energy Star standards. Unlike the applianceindustry, the residential lighting industry has not developed internaltesting protocols to make sure products are worthy of the Energy Star label,according to the Alliance. DOE has proposed changing Energy Star specifications to require CFLmanufacturers to submit long-term performance data before they can use theEnergy Star label. As a result of quality issues, the Program for the Evaluation and Analysisfor Residential Lighting (PEARL) has tested bulbs for quality since 2000.PEARL sponsors include BPA, Sacramento Municipal Utility District, PacificGas & Electric and energy efficiency utilities in the Northeast. Here is how PEARL works, according to a presentation at an Energy Starmeeting this year by Noah Horowitz of the Natural Resources Defense Council,chairman of the PEARL advisory board. Bulbs are purchased anonymously fromretail stores. Bulbs and ballasts are tested at Rensselaer PolytechnicUniversitys Lighting Research Center. Tests cover lighting and ballastperformance, lamp life, lamp start time, dimming, color rendition, powerfactor and other characteristics. Two testing cycles are carried out peryear. Ten fixtures and 20 CFL products are tested in each cycle. Horowitz said test results are given to Energy Star program managers at theDepartment of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency. The agencies canuse the information to remove the Energy Star label from substandardproducts. The recent growth in the CFL market "has attracted many new, unknown, and insome cases, unreliable manufacturers offering products with the Energy Starlabel," said an article about PEARL in a recent Alliance newsletter. Keating said PEARL is negotiating with manufacturers, distributors andretailers to share testing costs. "They want to get the bad products out ofthe market," he said. Costcos Cremo said "stricter tests" are needed to determine how well CFLsreally hold up when used in real-world environments such as inside fixtures.In comments on DOEs proposed Energy Star specification changes, NRDCpointed out that higher operating temperatures common in recessed canfixtures can shorten bulb life. NRDC also pointed out that CFL manufacturersoften change contract manufacturers and component suppliers, which canresult in uneven quality. Still, Keating said compact fluorescents have come a long way since the late1980s, when ungainly bulbs dominated what was then a tiny CFL market.Keating chuckled as he recalled a brand he nicknamed "Smoky Joes" because ofa bulb that overheated and began smoldering. In the consumer survey, only 3 percent to 4 percent of CFL buyers indicatedthey were dissatisfied with their purchases, and 78 percent of thedissatisfied indicated they were likely to buy another CFL in the comingyear. The leading reason for dissatisfaction, cited by 34 percent of thosenot satisfied, was that CFLs were not bright enough. Eleven percent citedearly burnout. Nearly 55 percent of CFL buyers who were satisfied with their purchaseslisted long product life as the leading reason for their satisfaction.Thirty-six percent cited energy efficiency, while 31 percent mentioned lightquality. CFL Barriers Cost remains the leading barrier to expanded CFL sales, according to theconsumer survey. Of the 316 respondents who had purchased incandescent bulbsonly, 38 percent listed price as a reason they had not purchased CFLs.Nineteen percent had not heard of CFLs, while 15 percent said they could notfind a type or size they wanted. One way around the price barrier, Philips Donati said, is to change theidentity of light bulbs from a commodity to a value product by educatingconsumers about the varying ways different kinds of lighting can be used todecorate their homes. "Show them how lighting adds value and how lightingcan be used to change the look of their homes," Donati said. He advocated expanded awareness of CFLs and their attributes. "I do the momtest," Donati said. "I show my mom a CFL and ask her, Whats this? Shedoesnt know. I say, Come on, mom, its a light bulb, I work for PhilipsLighting. People just arent as aware of them." In a May 2002 report, ECOS Consulting described barriers to CFLs in new homeconstruction. At least 11 parties--few with lighting design expertise--maybe involved in specifying new home lighting. Most new home energy efficiencyprograms do not address optimizing lighting or architectural designs thatcomplement daylighting, the report said. Home-buyers rank style and aesthetics as their highest lighting priority,ECOS said. "The more that energy-efficient lighting is designed to beattractive and aesthetic, the more marketable and permanent it will be, evenif this means giving up some potential energy savings to ensure consumersatisfaction," the report said. Lower prices, better quality, and expanded consumer awareness all will bekeys to building the CFL market, Keating said, observing that markettransformation often takes time. Costcos Cremo is confident CFLs eventually will replace incandescentsentirely. "From what Ive seen of the (CFL) technology lately, theincandescents days are numbered," he said. "I tell utilities to keepbombarding people with CFL information. Theyre going to get better andbetter." Reprinted with the permission from Con.Web. Back to Top Customers Put a Spotlight on Energy Conservation Scappoose Spotlight/Record-Journal As CFLs grow in popularity, the Northwest looks ahead to big energy savings and bulb recycling options... Now that North westerners have embraced compact fluorescent lights (CFLs), a decrease is on the rise in our regions energy use. Think about it! Approximately 6.5 million E NERGY S TAR ® CFLs alone were sold in only four states; Montana, Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Over 1,400 northwest retailers and 90 electric utilities participated in last years E NERGY S TAR ® Residential Lighting Program; the Northwest region is leading the charge! If you take that number and compare it with the 381,000 CFLs that were sold in 2000, you can now understand the impact and change, which these CFLs have had on the consumers home lighting needs. Not only do CFLs save the environment by using less electricity, consumers will save up to $30 over the life of the bulb on their monthly electric bills. "The success of the E NERGY S TAR ® residential lighting program reminds us that together we can provide big energy savings, improve the health of our region's electric system and help protect the environment," said Margaret Gardner of the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance. According to the NW Energy Efficiency Alliance, not only will savings be multiplied if every household replaces every ordinary light bulb with a CRL, but combined with other energy-saving products such as; clothes washers, refrigerators and home electronics their savings will be tremendous! The Alliance estimates that this and other regional programs will save over 460 aMW by 2010, enough to offset the need for building two new power plants in the NW region and taking approximately 600,000 cars off the road! Proper disposal of CFLs have been on the minds of many environmentalists for quite sometime. Currently, the Zero Waste Alliance, electric utilities and other environmental groups are working together researching opportunities for recycling. Although, CFLs contain a very small amount of mercury vapor, many environmentalists are concerned about recycling and proper disposal of CFLs. Their main concern is in 5 to 7 years from now, when the life of the CFL begins to fade. They want to encourage communities about proper disposal now, before large accumulations of CFLs end up in landfills. For the time being consumers can dispose of their CFLs with their household trash, along with other household materials such as paint, motor oil or batteries. Reprinted with permission from the Lynden Tribune/Record-Journal. Back to Top Northwest Leads the Nation in Energy Savings Effort Lynden Tribune/Record-Journal When it comes to buying more energy-efficient household products, the Northwest region is leading the charge. According to a recent report from the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance, Washington home owners are snapping up energy-efficient products and local retailers are experiencing the impact. In response, BPA residential customers got to work, conserving. Among other things the customers installed millions of low-energy, fluorescent light bulbs. The bigger message here? Big energy savings do not necessarily have to come from big industrial users. People, individual users in their homes, are a very important part of the environmental equation. " Nearly 80% of respondents in a survey of 152 independent and national retailers in the Northwest estimate an increase in sales of E NERGY S TAR ® qualified products over last year, the Alliance report said. Fourth quarter of 2001 sales data shows that the Northwest region ranked first in the nation for sales of qualified clothes washers with more than 30 percent market share. In Washington, nearly 32 percent of all clothes washers sold were E NERGY S TAR ® qualified - the second highest in the nation. "We're seeing a lot of interest from customers in E NERGY S TAR ® qualified clothes washers and that's sparking interest in other energy-efficient products, including dishwashers and refrigerators," said Dave Blankenship of Weir's Appliances in Tacoma. "As people replace home appliances, they're opting for the most energy-efficient models available." Sales of E NERGY S TAR ® qualified refrigerators also increased in the Northwest. Based on fourth quarter reports, Washington ranks sixth in the nation for sales of high efficiency refrigerators. The alliance also reported brisk sales and interest for E NERGY S TAR ® qualified lighting including compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). Fourth quarter sales of CFLs in the Northwest were two million. The retailers who were surveyed said consumers are more energy conscious and seek long-term value and savings when purchasing appliances. Nearly all consumers express interest in the water savings features of E NERGY S TAR ® qualified clothes washers and dishwashers as well. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, when it comes to buying energy-efficient products, the Northwest is heading in the right direction. The voluntary E NERGY S TAR ® labeling program was created by the EPA and the Department of Energy to help consumers easily identify products that save energy, money and protect the environment. Manufactures play a major role in developing products that meet higher efficiency standards and utilities help encourage homeowners to be more energy efficient by offering rebates and incentives for switching to E NERGY S TAR ® qualified products. The cooperative effort is paying off. Experts estimate by using E NERGY S TAR ® qualified products, a typical household can cut its utility bills by 30 percent. If everyone in the U.S. used the products, the reduction in greenhouse gas emission would be equivalent to taking 14.5 million cars off the road each year. The national annual energy bill would be reduced by about $100 billion over the next decade. Local efficiency advocates say that while the increasing demand for E NERGY S TAR ® qualified clothes washers and refrigerators is a positive sign, there is still room for improvement. "It's clear that Northwest consumers understand the benefit of using more efficient clothes washer, refrigerators and lighting in their homes," said Margaret Gardner, executive director of the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance. "Now, the goal is to encourage them to take advantage of even greater savings by looking for and buying other E NERGY S TAR ® qualified products." By changing their shopping habits, Northwest homeowners can keep a little more change in their own pockets, say energy efficiency experts. Changing the way Americans shop and buy products is a part of the major new campaign called "Change," spearheaded by the Environmental Protection Agency. "Change" is calling on homeowners throughout the nation to help save money ad protect the environment by selecting and buying E NERGY S TAR ® qualified products. For a complete list of E NERGY S TAR ® qualified products, retailers, manufactures and energy savings information, call 1-888-373-2283 or log on to www.energystar.gov . The Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance, a non-profit group of electric utilities, state governments, public interest groups and industry representatives, promotes the E NERGY S TAR ® label to Northwest consumers. By funding the Northwest E NERGY S TAR ® Home Products Program, the alliance is bringing affordable, energy-efficient products and services to the market, helping Northwest consumers realize long-term savings and protect the environment. Reprinted with permission from the Lynden Tribune/Record-Journal. Back to Top Energy Newsbriefs at CON.WEB CONWEB is the Pacific Northwest Energy Conservation & Renewable Energy Newsletter, reporting regional conservation news. National Leader ACEEE Study Lauds Oregon for Energy Efficiency, Green Building Tax Incentives Oregon is a national leader in using tax incentives to give energy-efficient products and green buildings a leg up in the marketplace, according to a new study by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy. Oregon's residential and business income tax credit programs have "gained enthusiastic support from legislators, retailers, and manufacturers, as well as consumers," since they were established in response to the 1970s energy shortages, the study said. More news available at www.newsdata.com/enernet/conweb/conweb.html . Back to Top U.S. EPA E NERGY S TAR ® News Room E NERGY S TAR ® provides consumers with energy-efficient solutions that save money while protecting the environment for future generations. Find out what the media is saying about E NERGY S TAR ® at www.epa.gov/nrgystar/news.html Whitman Accepts Charles H. Percy Award For the E NERGY S TAR ® Program October 9, 2002 - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Christie Whitman todaywas presented with the Charles H. Percy Award for public service by theAlliance to Save Energy. This award was given to EPA for establishing theE NERGY S TAR ® program, a public-private partnership that helps protect theenvironment while saving consumers money through energy efficiency. "Over the past decade, EPA's E NERGY S TAR ® program has grown from a voluntarycomputer labeling program to a partnership with over 7000 organizations,"said Whitman. "Last year alone, Americans, with the help of E NERGY S TAR ®,saved more than $5 billion in energy costs and reduced pollution equivalentto that of 10 million cars. We look forward to working together for the nextdecade to help consumers across the country have the information they needto make the best choices for their lives and for the environment." "In just a decade, the E NERGY S TAR ® program has grown in both depth andbreadth," said Alliance to Save Energy President David M. Nemtzow. "Now, notonly are many more products included in the program than at its launch in1992, but in addition, the E NERGY S TAR ® label is taking the energy efficiencymessage to consumers and businesses around the globe via partnerships withother governments. You can't get much better than a program that both savesconsumers money and protects the environment." Through the E NERGY S TAR ® program, EPA partnerships include over 1,200manufacturers labeling more than 13,000 products and over 1,600 buildersthat have constructed over 57,000 new homes. Through E NERGY S TAR ®, EPA hasalso helped thousands of businesses and schools rate their energy use. The typical American household spends about $1,300 a year on its energybills. By purchasing products that have earned EPA's E NERGY S TAR ® label,that bill could be cut by about 30 percent, which is a savings of about $400a year. The E NERGY S TAR ® label can now be found on more than 35 differentcategories including telephones, televisions, light bulbs and homeappliances such as dishwashers and refrigerators. By choosing E NERGY S TAR ®,there is no sacrifice in the features, style or comfort that today'sconsumers expect. As part of his National Energy Plan, President Bush called for increasedpublic awareness of the E NERGY S TAR ® program and its benefits to consumersand businesses. The President also called for the expansion of the programto provide the label for additional building types including grocery stores,hospitals and hotels. EPA established E NERGY S TAR ® in 1992 to offer energy-saving andpollution-preventing solutions for consumers and businesses by awardinglabels to the most energy efficient products, homes and buildings. EPApartnered with the U.S. Department of Energy in 1996 to promote the ENERGYSTAR label, with each agency taking responsibility for particular productcategories. For more information about the E NERGY S TAR ® program visit: www.energystar.gov . Back to Top E NERGY S TAR ® Helps America Keep Cool This Summer Cooling Solutions that Save Energy, Money, and Protect the Environment Homeowners across the nation have been challenged by E NERGY S TAR ®, a program sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and supported by the Department of Energy, to make smart cooling choices at home this summer, use energy more efficiently, and help reduce air pollution. Working closely with businesses and utilities, E NERGY S TAR ® launched a consumer-education campaign, called Cool Change. This campaign raises American's awareness of their cooling system - encouraging homeowners to use energy-efficient equipment, tightly seal their ducts, properly maintain their cooling system, and have a well-sealed and insulated home. According to the EPA, Americans spend as much as half of their energy bills to cool and heat their homes throughout the year. To make it easy for consumers to make a Cool Change this summer, E NERGY S TAR ®'s partners are offering incentives, such as rebates and sales. For a complete list of special deals, visit www.energystar.gov/coolchange . "E NERGY S TAR ® is a great way for each of us to make a change - one that will protect the environment, save money, and achieve energy efficiency," said EPA Administrator Christie Whitman. "I encourage all Americans to follow our recommendations for energy efficiency and join our campaign for change." The EPA estimates that if just one household in 10 participated in Cool Change and used E NERGY S TAR ® labeled heating and cooling products, the change would reduce electricity production enough to keep 17 billion pounds of pollution out of the air this year. To help consumers identify easy ways to avoid energy-waste this summer, the EPA released the following tips: Out with the old, in with the new. If your central air conditioning equipment is more than 10 years old, it is probably time for a replacement - new cooling equipment that has earned the E NERGY S TAR ® label can keep you just as or more comfortable, while using 25 to 40 percent less energy than 10-year-old models. Replacing old ceiling fans and dehumidifiers with new E NERGY S TAR ® labeled models can also help to lower your energy bills and keep your home comfortable. Seal it up. Seal your ducts to distribute cool air where it needs to go and improve the indoor air quality of your home. Keep the cool air in by adding insulation to your home, weather-stripping and caulking, and choosing E NERGY S TAR ® labeled windows when replacing old windows. Make a smart purchase. When replacing central and room air conditioning equipment, make sure it is properly sized and installed. Bigger is not always better, and equipment that is too large can lead to high energy costs and reduced comfort. Find problems before they occur. If your cooling equipment needs frequent repairs and your bills are increasing, it could mean your equipment is becoming less efficient. E NERGY S TAR ® recommends having an annual maintenance check-up by a certified professional. Put your home to the test. Find out how you can make energy-efficient improvements to your home with the Home Improvement Toolbox. Visit www.energystar.gov and click on "Put your home to the test." E NERGY S TAR ®, the nation's symbol for energy efficiency, enables consumers to easily identify energy-efficient appliances, electronics, office equipment, lighting, heating and cooling equipment, buildings, and even new homes. For more information about E NERGY S TAR ® and the Cool Change consumer-education campaign, visit www.energystar.gov/coolchange or call 1-888-STAR-YES (1-888-782-7937). FOR MORE INFORMATION: Wendy Reed, 202-564-1253, or email her at Reed.Wendy@epa.gov or Phillip Hayes, 202-944-1933. Back to Top What is E NERGY S TAR ® ? E NERGY S TAR ®-qualified bulbs and fixtures provide high quality light output,warm or cool tones, are efficient and long-lasting, and save them money overthe life of the bulb or fixture. There are numerous compact fluorescentlights (CFLs) in the market, but only E NERGY S TAR ® qualified CFLs canguarantee top-notch performance. E NERGY S TAR ® CFLs last up to ten timeslonger than incandescent bulbs and use up to 75% less electricity as well. E NERGY S TAR ® was introduced by the US Environmental Protection Agency in 1992as a voluntary labeling program designed to identify and promoteenergy-efficient products, in order to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. EPApartnered with the US Department of Energy in 1996 to promote the E NERGY S TAR ®label, with each agency taking responsibility for particular productcategories. E NERGY S TAR ® has expanded to cover new homes, most of thebuildings sector, residential heating and cooling equipment, majorappliances, office equipment, lighting, consumer electronics, and moreproduct areas. Please visit www.energystar.gov .

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Amazon.com: House of Flying Daggers: DVD Your Store DVD See All 32 Product Categories Your Account | Cart | Wish List | Help | Advanced Search | Browse Genres | Top Sellers | New & Future Releases | Television Central | Life & Learning | DVD Essentials | Blowout DVDs | Movie Showtimes | Used DVDs Search Amazon.com DVD Web Search Join Amazon Prime and ship Two-Day for free and Overnight for $3.99. Already a member? Sign in . DVD Information Explore this item buying info editorial reviews customer reviews cast and crew fun facts Listmania! All Things Sexy : A list by Eliza Add your List Ready to buy? Sign in to turn on 1-Click ordering. A9.com users save 1.57% on Amazon. Learn how . MORE BUYING CHOICES 123 used & new from $7.45 Available for in-store pickup now from: $19.99 Price may vary based on availability Enter your ZIP Code Have one to sell? House of Flying Daggers (2005) Starring: Takeshi Kaneshiro , Andy Lau Director: Yimou Zhang Rating: See larger image Share your own customer images List Price: $19.94 Price: $12.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25. See details You Save: $6.95 (35%) Availability: Usually ships within 24 hours. Ships from and sold by Amazon.com. Want it delivered Friday, December 30? Choose One-Day Shipping at checkout. See details 123 used & new available from $7.45 Edition: Other Versions and Languages Other Versions (DVD) List Price Price Other Offers: DVD House of Flying Daggers (UMD mini for PSP) $28.95 $25.99 36 used & new from $13.97 DVD House of Flying Daggers/Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon $36.96 $25.88 71 used & new from $17.97 Other Versions (VHS Tape) VHS Tape House of Flying Daggers $14.95 $14.20 10 used & new from $7.50 Better Together Buy this DVD with Hero DVD ~ Jet Li today! Total List Price: $39.93 Buy Together Today: $25.98 Customers who bought this DVD also bought Hero DVD ~ Jet Li The Incredibles (Widescreen 2-Disc Collector's Edition) DVD ~ Maeve Andrews Sin City DVD ~ Robert Rodriguez Batman Begins (Two-Disc Deluxe Edition with Comic Book) DVD ~ Christian Bale Explore Similar Items : in DVD , in Music , and in Books Storyline Genres: Action , Drama , Romance Plot Outline: A romantic warrior breaks a beautiful member of a rebel army out of prison to help her rejoin her fellows, but things are not what they seem. Plot Synopsis: During the reign of the Tang dynasty in China, a secret organization called "The House of the Flying Daggers" rises and opposes the government. A police officer called Leo sends officer Jin to investigate a young dancer named Mei, claiming that she has ties to the "Flying Daggers". Leo arrests Mei, only to have Jin breaking her free in a plot to gain her trust and lead the police to the new leader of the secret organization. But things are far more complicated than they seem... Plot Keywords: Visually Impaired Person | Blind | Blindness | Police | Deputy | Police Officer | Martial Arts | Blind Girl | Brothel | China | Dancer | Doublecross | (Show all 22 plot keywords recommended by customers) Product Details Actors: Takeshi Kaneshiro , Andy Lau , Ziyi Zhang , Dandan Song , Yang Guang , See more Directors: Yimou Zhang Format: Ac- , Color, Dolby, Dubbed, Subtitled, Widescreen, Ntsc, Widescreen Anamorphic Region: Region 1 ( U.S. and Canada only. Read more about DVD formats. ) Number of discs: 1 Rated: Studio: Sony Pictures DVD Release Date: April 19, 2005 Run Time: 119 min (original theatrical or airing runtime) Average Customer Review: Based on 219 Reviews DVD Features: Available Subtitles: English, French Available Audio Tracks: (Dolby Digital 5.1), English (Dolby Digital 5.1) Commentary with actor Ziyi Zhang and director Zhang Yimou Creating the Visual Effects featurette "Making of" featurette Theme Song 'Lovers' Music Video Behind the Scenes Photo Gallery Costumes Gallery Storyboard Comparisons Previews From IMDb: Quotes & Trivia ASIN: B0007Q6VXC Amazon.com Sales Rank: #285 in DVD Theatrical Release Information US Theatrical Release Date: January 14, 2005 MPAA: for sequences of stylized martial arts violence, and some sexuality. Production Company: Beijing New Picture Film Co., China Film Co-Production Corporation, EDKO Film Ltd., Elite Group Enterprises, Zhang Yimou Studio USA Box Office: $11 Million Budget Estimate: $100 Million Filming Locations: Beijing, China| China| Kossiv National Park, Ukraine| Lviv, Ukraine| Sichun Province, China| Tea Mountain Bamboo Sea Scenery Park, Yongchuen, Chongqing, China| Ukraine Editorial Reviews Amazon.com No one uses color like Chinese director Zhang Yimou--movies like Raise the Red Lantern or Hero , though different in tone and subject matter, are drenched in rich, luscious shades of red, blue, yellow, and green. House of Flying Daggers is no exception; if they weren't choreographed with such vigorous imagination, the spectacular action sequences would seem little more than an excuse for vivid hues rippling across the screen. Government officers Leo and Jin (Asian superstars Andy Lau and Takeshi Kaneshiro) set out to destroy an underground rebellion called the House of Flying Daggers (named for their weapon of choice, a curved blade that swoops through the air like a boomerang). Their only chance to find the rebels is a blind women named Mei (Ziyi Zhang, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon ) who has some lethal kung fu moves of her own. In the guise of an aspiring rebel, Jin escorts Mei through gorgeous forests and fields that become bloody battlegrounds as soldiers try to kill them both. While arrows and spears of bamboo fly through the air, Mei, Jin, and Leo turn against each other in surprising ways, driven by passion and honor. Zhang's previous action/art film, Hero , sometimes sacrificed momentum for sheer visual beauty; House of Flying Daggers finds a more muscular balance of aesthetic splendor and dazzling swordplay. --Bret Fetzer Customers who viewed this DVD also viewed Star Wars, Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (Widescreen Edition) DVD ~ Ahmed Best National Treasure (Widescreen Edition) DVD ~ Nicolas Cage Sideways (Widescreen Edition) DVD ~ Paul Giamatti Kung Fu Hustle (Widescreen Edition) DVD ~ Kwok Kuen Chan Explore Similar Items : in DVD , in Music , and in Video Spotlight Reviews Write an online review and share your thoughts with other customers. 179 of 199 people found the following review helpful: More Romance Than 'Hero' and More Beauty of Zhang Ziyi , October 7, 2004 Reviewer: T. Nakajima (Kyoto-shi, Kyoto-hu Japan) - See all my reviews Soon following the success of 'Hero,' director Yimou Zhang made another film featuring beautiful Zhang Ziyi. One of the good news for Zhang Ziyi fans (including me) is that 'House of Flying Daggers' features her almost all through the film. And this time director's stress is clearly given to the romantic side of the story -- and as if to match his intention, 'House' looks more beautiful, colorful, and gorgeous, than 'Hero.' And there are actions, and some of them are quite unique. The film is set in 859 AD, last days of the now corrupt Tang Dynasty in China. One underground sect called House of Flying Daggers are openly challenging the authority of the government, and to crush these rebels, two officers Jin -- also known 'The Wind' (Takeshi Kaneshiro, 'Chunking Express') and Leo (Andy Lau, 'Infernal Affairs') think of a good plan. Jin goes to meet a blind courtesan Mei (Zhang Ziyi), who is suspected to be connected with the secret clan, and he gains the confidence of this beautiful dancer by some tricks -- tricks meaning 'love.' Make her love you, and you get her secret. Hopefully she will lead Jin to the hiding place of the 'House of Flying Daggers,' but before the plan starts, Leo warns Jin: 'Don't fall in love for real.' But who can resist Mei's beauty? Or Zhang Ziyi's for that matter? The rest of the story is very melodramatic, and the film sometimes needs a good amount of suspension of disbelief (especially for Western audiences, I'm afraid). But, though melodramatic, it is aptly so, as this is basically about a romance, or a love story. Those who love the romantic mood in films would understand what I say. It's all about the tension and mood, and 'House' has lots of them. Actions are done by Tony Ching Siu-Tung, whose CV includes the action director of 'A Chinese Ghost Story.' He gives superb martial arts actions here again, without using too much of now-too-trendy wire actions. As the film title shows, there are some effectively shot scenes of 'flying daggers' which, with a good use of CGIs, gives a few of thrilling moments. And like I said before, the battles in the midst of a deep bamboo forest are not to be missed, if you are a real Hong-Kong film fan. Costumes are provided by Emi Wada (as in 'Hero'), whose colorful dresses are just wonderful. Particlularly those long-sleeved dancing costumes for Zhang Ziyi not merely enhance the exotic beauty of the dancer, but things to be treasured on their own merit. And Kathleen Battle sings the theme song at the end of the film. But first and foremost, to me, the film is made for Zhang Ziyi. Did I say she is beautiful? She is, and breathtakingly so, when her character betrays her hidden emotions before the camera. And sometimes the film reveals the character's very sensual side -- I say, for a Chinese film, of course, but it was a little surprising. Of course, top-credited Andy Lau and Takeshi Kaneshiro are the stars, and they are very good. The film is always beautiful to see, from the first to the end (the snow field was shot in Ukraine). And if you're a fan of Zhang Ziyi, this one is not to be missed for it's not too much to say that it belongs to her. Was this review helpful to you? ( Report this ) 214 of 333 people found the following review helpful: Opinion of a Chinese Viewer..... , December 13, 2004 Reviewer: C. Jen "chanteuse33" (Los Angeles, CA USA) - See all my reviews To be fair, this is not a bad movie considering how many bad movies Hollywood put out there each year. As a Chinese living in US for 20+ years and someone grew up devoting to Wushia films, this is a good but not outstanding movie. Certain aspects were distracting: 1. bamboo forest and the other forest don't mix. They are apparently from two very different regions. Weird how they traversed between the two like they were next door neighbors.... 2. Mei and Jin must be really young to fall so deeply for each other after only 3 days. Also said the House of Daggers leader, Mei (Zhang Ziyi) had used her beauty for business a few times before. She's not a spring chicken who had never ventured out of her confine to be a true Juliet (if you must use the Shakespearean connection.....) 3. Once the twist was revealed, Leo(Andy Lau)'s role became very unsympathetic. He's a classic case of possessive character that stalker/abuser is made of. House of The Flying Daggers is not a Wushia movie technically because its emphasis on the love story. Everything, the story structure, fight scenes, visuals, music, and editing, are all in support of the love story. A true Wushia movie is more about good vs. evil, right vs. wrong, underdog vs. oppressor, or moral vs. greed, much like a classic Western should. As a love story/melodrama, it is good. As a Wushia movie, it is not. Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon is a better representation of the Wushia genre. Just my two cents.... Was this review helpful to you? ( Report this ) Customer Reviews Average Customer Review: Write an online review and share your thoughts with other customers. If nothing else, watch this movie for the 'Echo Game' scene... , December 28, 2005 Reviewer: Brandon Wiggins "Glass Onion Child" - See all my reviews This movie is primarily a love story that is kept mildly entertaining with some high flying martial arts and the absolutely stunning Zhiang Ziyi. What I enjoyed most about this film, however, was the choreography and wonderful use of colors throughout the movie. As mentioned before, the 'Echo Game' scene features Zhiang Ziyi performing a beautiful martial arts dance with a gown that has long flowing sleeves that are absolutely gorgeous to watch on screen as they move effortlessly around the circle hitting each specific drum. This was by far one of my favorite scenes in the entire movie. The use of colors is also wonderful to watch, especially the green theme used for the House of Flying Daggers' scenes. As far as the plot goes, this movie offers nothing spectatuclar and is a melodramatic love story at best. But the acting is superb and the film offers enough plot twists to keep your interest until the end of the film. Overall, this film is not about action so much as it is about the overall mood created with the visuals and love story. Zhiang Ziyi is spectacular in her role as Mei and I would highly reccomend this to any fan of films such as 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon', etc. (CTHD has a much better story though.) Was this review helpful to you? ( Report this ) Better than Crouching Tiger! , December 21, 2005 Reviewer: David Foskin (Waterford, Ireland) - See all my reviews After raising his artistic level to lofty heights in "Hero," Chinese director Zhang Yimou returns to earth with the elegiac "House of Flying Daggers." In what could be considered the second film of his third different film-making period, Zhang now freely traffics in martial arts. Bringing to the genre his own cinematic sensibilities, he renders a film that equals Hong Kong artists in action sequences, while again displaying his mastery in overall technique. Working with a script from Li Feng, Wang Bin and himself, Zhang again returns to his country's history for an action tale full of romance, deceit, betrayal and loyalty. Set in 859 China, near the end of the Tang dynasty, "Daggers" centers on an on-going conflict between the established, corrupt emperor (whom we never see) and what must be called a terrorist group, known by the film's title, sworn to overthrow the ineffectual leader. But, strangely, even when dealing with such a variety of emotions, "Daggers" is often a cold, uninvolving movie. A romance is established between Mei (Zhang Ziyi), who may or may not be blind, and Jin (Takeshi Kaneshiro), who may or may not be a double agent for the government, with Leo (Andy Lau), who may or may not be a triple agent for the government, acting as a romantic foil. In the prolonged opening scene set in a brothel, full of flowery patterns and shimmering costumes, Mei dances for Leo, suggesting that the deft Zhang Ziyi can execute any physical demands. Before leaving the scene, however, director Zhang shows his perfect eye for composition and choreography with his production of Mei's "echo dance." Mei smoothly moves through her intricate paces, provocatively stimulating the senses. Carefully choreographed drummers surround her in perfect symmetry, setting up an unlikely stage from which Mei performs her stunning dance. After this initial interior sequence, the film goes outside and stays there for several pursuits. Zhang then parades several imaginative battle sequences in which armies are outrageously mowed down by one or two people. Consequently, much of "Daggers" follows a Hong Kong film tradition by taking place in the air, as fights erupt in bamboo forests, with warriors swaying in the trees, bending, and defying gravity. Zhang's pastoral fight scenes don't originate from the Hong Kong tradition of Tsui Hark or early John Woo films, but instead are his own inventions with much more emphasis on the aesthetic. And it's for this eye that Zhang is best known, even in epic works like "Hero" or in a film like "Daggers." And that alone makes it more entertaining, and better, than 98 percent of most movies. Was this review helpful to you? ( Report this ) 1 of 3 people found the following review helpful: From another Chinese viewer... , December 19, 2005 Reviewer: F. Quan (Orem, UT USA) - See all my reviews I rented this movie over the weekend so I could decide if I was going to buy it. Decided against buying it. The movie is slow and drawn out. This is really a love story with martial arts in it. If you're looking for a martial arts movie, move on to something else. If you're looking for a love story, there are better stories out there. Was this review helpful to you? ( Report this ) 2 of 2 people found the following review helpful: An Asian love story , December 15, 2005 Reviewer: Cory D. Slipman (Rockville Centre, N.Y.) - See all my reviews "House of Flying Daggers" directed by acclaimed Yimou Zhang is a romanntic drama disguised as a martial arts film. This visually appealing movie features terrific set designs and costuming to create 9th century China at the time of the Tang dynasty. The martial arts action sequences were choreographed beautifully as one would expect. The storyline however was merely an above average romantic plot. The Tang dynasty was in a state of decline and a clandestine underground group, the House of the Flying Daggers, was attempting to take over control of the country. The blind daughter of the recently assassinated leader of the group was purported to be working as a dancer in the lavishly decorated bordello, the Peony Pavilion. Two captains of the reigning government Jin and Leo schemed to use the girl to lead them to the secret hideout of the Flying Daggers. The girl Mei played by the ravishingly beautiful Ziyi Zhang is arrested on trumped up charges by Leo, played by Andy Lau and threatened with torture unless she reveals the secrets of the Flying Daggers. As previously, arranged Jin played by Takeshi Kaneshiro, helps her escape using an impressive array of martial arts moves. Jin and Mei, also an accomplished martial artist, are riding and running through the countryside being hunted by government soldiers. Jin is attempting to gain Mei's confidence so that he can coax her into leading him to the Flying Daggers, with Leo in hot pursuit. A funny thing happens as in their flight which includes frequent battles in that Jin and Mei fall in love. Mei had previously been Leo's love interest so this creates a muddle in the various allegiances. The film concludes in a fairly standard manner but not necessarily happily ever after. Was this review helpful to you? ( Report this ) See all 219 customer reviews... Listmania! Great Asian Movies, China, #1 ... : by Steve Vander The Best Tearjerkers : by Lyn All Things Sexy : by Eliza So You'd Like to... The Best of Eastern Directors : by Jason , Amateur Film Critic Have an awesome Movie collection like me : by kurt , Movie collector/ amatuer movie critic Get the BEST Cinema. : by Ruben , Amateur Movie Critic Fun Facts from IMDb.com: Awards Click here to see more Awards Boston Society of Film Critics Awards: BSFC Award for Best Foreign-Language Film, Best Director, Best Cinematography Golden Rooster Awards: Golden Rooster for Best Art Direction Golden Trailer Awards: Golden Trailer for Best Foreign, Best Foreign Independent Los Angeles Film Critics Association Awards: LAFCA Award for Best Foreign Language Film Motion Picture Sound Editors, USA: Golden Reel Award for Best Sound Editing in Foreign Features National Board of Review, USA: NBR Award for Outstanding Production Design National Society of Film Critics Awards, USA: NSFC Award for Best Cinematography, Best Director Satellite Awards: Golden Satellite Award for Best Visual Effects, Best Cinematography Nominations Click here to see more Nominations Academy Awards, USA: Oscar for Best Achievement in Cinematography Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films, USA: Saturn Award for Best Fantasy Film, Best Costumes, Best Director, Best Actress BAFTA Awards: BAFTA Film Award for Best Editing, Best Production Design, Best Film not in the English Language, Best Make Up/Hair, Best Achievement in Special Visual Effects, Best Sound, Best Costume Design, Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role, Best Cinematography Broadcast Film Critics Association Awards: BFCA Award for Best Foreign Language Film Chlotrudis Awards: Chlotrudis Award for Best Cinematography European Film Awards: Screen International Award Golden Globes, USA: Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film Golden Rooster Awards: Golden Rooster for Best Picture, Best Sound, Best Director Golden Trailer Awards: Golden Trailer for Best Music Hong Kong Film Awards: Hong Kong Film Award for Best Asian Film Trivia Click here to see more Trivia Director Yimou Zhang has said that he will rewrite the screenplay to remove Anita Mui's character following the veteran star's death. This is meant to be a sign of respect for Mui. It was earlier reported that Michelle Yeoh or Brigitte Lin would be cast instead. This was originally going to be Anita Mui's final appearance in film and she had already accepted the role but, because she was battling cervical cancer, her part wasn't going to be filmed until early 2004. After her death on 30 December 2003, director Yimou Zhang decided to alter the script rather than find a replacement. Anita's name will still be listed in the credits. Goofs Click here to see more Goofs The music that the live musicians play during the drum duel scene, although beautiful, is not characteristic of classical Chinese music of that era. Crazy Credits Click here to see more Crazy Credits In Memory of Anita Mui1963-2003 The Chinese theatrical release has a Chinese translation of the ending song(which has lyrics in English) on the left side of the screen during thecredits. Movie Connections Click here to see more Movie Connections Featured in: The 77th Annual Academy Awards Quotes Click here to see more Quotes [reaches for dagger in back] Leo : Yee : Do not pull this dagger out. I'm sending you back to keep spying for us. You will be more convincing with a dagger in your back. Mei : To be free like the wind. For more information about "House of Flying Daggers" visit the Internet Movie Database (IMDb) Look for similar items by category Browse similar items in: DVD > Actors & Actresses > ( K ) > Kaneshiro, Takeshi DVD > Actors & Actresses > ( L ) > Lau, Andy DVD > Directors > ( Y ) > Yimou, Zhang DVD > Genres > Action & Adventure > General DVD > Genres > Art House & International > By Country > China DVD > Genres > Art House & International > By Country > Hong Kong > General DVD > Genres > Art House & International > By Original Language > Chinese DVD > Genres > Art House & International > General DVD > Genres > Drama > General DVD > Genres > Drama > Love & Romance > Romance DVD > Genres > Drama > Love & Romance > Star-Crossed Lovers DVD > Genres > Drama > Period Piece Suggestion Box Your comments can help make our site better for everyone. If you've found something incorrect, broken, or frustrating on this page, let us know so that we can improve it. 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