Way, waaaaaaaay OT, but a serious request

I used to go to Chinese movies when I lived in a big city that had a
Chinatown area. Most of them were "chop-socky" types but every once in a
while they'd show a modern Chinese romance flick (so-so) or something else,
and there was one in the "something else" category that I'd go see every
time it played, and if possible sit through showing after showing all day
and night. There was just something about this film that grabbed me and
wouldn't let go....

I'd forgotten all about it until recently when I saw Brokeback Mountain
(finally - what a superb film!) which of course has a Chinese director,
which got me thinking about Chinese movies in general, then I remembered
this old one. All I can remember right now is that it was released prior to
1976, it was a dramatized account of some important event or period in
Chinese history (old times, like maybe B.C. or earlier, I am not sure, but
definitely no later than about the 18th century A.D.), and it was simply
stupendous in scope and absolutely riveting. Lots of the color red in the
costumes and sets.

Now, I'd really, really, really love to see this film again, but first I
need to know what it's called. I know if I heard it or read it, I would know
it, but I cannot think of it.

I've joined some internet groups concerned with obscure films and asked for
help to recall this film title, without success.

Would deeply appreciate any help at all.

And speaking of films, more specifically films with cats in them, I know of
another: Secret Garden.

I haven't actually watched it but it was playing in a video store I
sometimes visit and I caught a glimpse of the cat in it. A blackie. Don't
know if anything bad happens to it. If anyone does know, please inform me.