The film stands out in the excellent filming of the action scenes,
Story: 7
It tells of the emotional journey the hero is experiencing which is often expressed through his attachment to motorbike racing and the thrill, danger and pride involved. The family conflict is a typical trope, that serves to explain the hero’s motivation and state of mind. Ultimately , the story revolves around this issue, which is an interesting concept.
Good, but nothing new, typical of HK 1980’s & 1990’s action movies.
Action Scenes: 8.5
As a primarily action film, the scenes are exciting and express very well the excitement of riding, the pride of racing/winning and the adrenaline rush of speed. It graphically shows the danger of motorcycle racing in a very disturbing yet palpable way. Some of those violent scenes of speed are indelible and will likely be film images that I will always remember.
The scenes are filmed in a manner so as to put the audience in the driver’s seat and have one experience the driver’s POV. It succeeds in this endeavor.
Characters, Plot and Message: 6
Unlike the motorbike scenes that grabbed me emotionally, the film is not as successful in affecting me enough to much care for the characters. The plot is intended to make the audience at least care for the hero, his emotional scars and turmoil. The emotional scenes of the father-son conflict and the deep attachment b/w the hero and his girlfriend are two very interesting relationships, but somehow, they are not explored adequately or perhaps with enough depth. The scene of enlightenment is set off by mediocre dialogue. The last few scenes in the film perfectly summed up that failed effort.
Neither the writing nor the directing relayed any palpable emotion that we are told is there.
Acting: 7
I love Andy Lau and I am biased. He’s very good here, at least an 8. The others were adequate. I was not impressed by the lead actress.
Music; 8
Very fitting
Conclusion:
1) I am glad I watched it, the action is very much worth watching, the story is OK but nothing new.
2) It failed to make me truly care for the characters and the hero’s journey.
3) Some unforgettable images that have given me a better graphic and emotional understanding of the thrill and danger of motorbike racing. (Well, I have always loved the adrenaline rush of speeding . Ofc that is only fond memories now, as I have matured and no longer have that youthful feeling of infallibility, which apparently the hero and his friends have.)
4). The writing and directing failed the very interesting , yet unoriginal concept.
Recommended for the action scenes and to Andy Lau lovers.
Side Note:
I can imagine this film remade into a Hollywood movie with a much faster moving plot , highly sophisticated action with exciting editing and a lot of “tugging at the heart” moments (usually very superficial). It would have a hero that is louder and more expressive of his emotions .... And, I would probably hate it !!!
—->> I would still prefer the Hong Kong approach, but done in a better way than this director managed.
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