Written by Nai-Hoi Yau & Tin-Shing Yip
Directed by Johnnie To
The modern HK master is at it again, combining martial arts theories and concepts, and applying them realistically into a police story has become the signature trademark for To. He is not a "kung fu" director, although he maintains many of the themes explored in kung fu cinema. He combines this sensibility with modern cop drama, and he comes out with a unique style that takes his subjects, and his characters, seriously.
Every two years the Triads hold elections to decide which new boss will run the crime family they are a part of. Lam Lok (Simon Yam) is a shrewd business man, not your typical gangster, he keeps his cool in most situations, and often sees the whole picture before anyone else can.
Big D (Tony Leung) is a brash, loud, obnoxious gangster who lives flamboyantly, and is quick to beat someone in a fit of anger. These two are the potential bosses of the family, and a lot of turmoil brews when the vote is almost split. Big D uses his money to buy votes, while Lam Lok's supporters want him because of his honesty and potential as a leader. The two men and their supporters wage a bloody war over the baton that is the symbol of the bosses' power, which has been stolen by Big D's men after Lam Lok wins the vote when the captains all agree money should have nothing to do with their decision.
This is an interesting story of gangsters and the world they live in, the things they hold most dear, and how big of a part power plays in their lives and the daily dramas that unfold before them. All the technical aspects of this film are superb, excellent cinematography and sound is aided by stylish direction and pitch perfect performances from both Tony Leung and Lam Lok, two equally despicable men in their own right. This deep story is an interesting approach to the HK gangster film, it doesn't have many huge shootouts, nor hand to hand combat, but it still manages to be an intense and visceral experience.
9.2/10
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