A Guilty Conscience

The plot of A Guilty Conscience is a bit unrealistic at times. For example, it is hard to believe that a single mother would be able to afford a top-notch defense attorney, especially in Hong Kong, where the cost of living is so high. Additionally, the way that the attorney is able to uncover the truth about the woman's innocence is a bit too convenient.

Here are some specific examples of the unrealistic plot:

The single mother is able to afford a top-notch defense attorney, even though she is not wealthy.

The attorney is able to uncover the truth about the woman's innocence in a very short amount of time.

The police are not able to find any evidence that the woman is guilty.

Obviously this movie has an alternative motive. It's a complaint to the system but over the top, almost as if in sulking anger and disenchantment. Maybe disillusioned as well.

Supposedly based on a real life case but this court room drama takes a life on its own. I like the acting of the crown lawyer much better as he's a bit more restrained. But then that's the counter to the defending lawyer.

The case is about a cover-up really. Of rich family blaming the poor or underprivileged. It's not bad, but probably picks up what the sentiment of the general population. So kind of court room Rocky. A feel good movie. So don't expect any logic in the arguments , or any legal sense or the court proceedings to be accurate in any stretch. It's all for dramatic effect.

A Guilty Conscience has some of the most absurd, implausible courtroom scenes I have ever seen. The climax is so dramatic that it makes soap operas look grounded. It looks like the most exhausting trial ever. Lawyers shout at each other as if they are in a heated debate contest.

Our protagonist is the lawyer version of Doctor House: A bitter, talky person that solves cases in his own way. He is played by Dayo Wong, who used to be an infamous box office poison. Here he is better than ever (This doesn't mean he is great). The start of the plot is standard legal drama material (Think a Law and Order episode). Wong fails a big case involving a child's death, causing harm to an innocent person. Two years later the case returns... Yes, a Guilty Conscience recycles an ancient "redemption arc" story, yet it is done in a gloriously entertaining way.

None of the story is believable. They exist in an overwritten screenplay. Despite looking like and sounding like one, this is not a screwball comedy. Although when you think about it, certain parts are funny for the wrong reasons. The sudden rise of absurdity leaves me with a mixed feeling, but I sure am entertained.

NOTE: If you're planning to see this in theaters, be aware that the audio mixing is obnoxiously terrible. The dialogue is so loud, and gets covered by the even more deafening music. I felt like the lawyers were shouting beside my ears during the trial.

In true poignant fashion illustrating the hurt and pain endured by Hong Kongers.

Perfectly paints the current political climate against a tyrannical regime and its blatant infiltration into the judicial system in what was once a highly touted and respected legal system that sought to seek a fair and impartial trials for all. The fall of a flourishing former British Colony....a battle cry for the ages against internal injustices compromised by greed and power.

Superb acting by Dayo Wong and supporting cast. A palatable performance that transitions with sprinkled comedic effect throughout, but does not stray from an important message and underlying theme- a guilty conscience.

Certain moments are sensationalized for entertainment effect and don't represent reality ie) a lawyers professional demeanor. Otherwise a brilliant and entertaining legal drama from start to finish.

10/10.

First, there is a strong plot to support this movie. A half time of this movie shows the challenge and conflicts that are faced by the protagonist. Every challenge gives the protagonist more passion and determination to find justice. And the rest of the half time is the climax of this movie because the protagonist challenges the legal system in the courtroom.

Second, good reflection of the main character makes the audiences have more empathy for the protagonist. The story set different turning points to show the changes of the main character to make the audience more understand his emotions, behaviors, and motivations and realize what he stands for.

I think it is a HK movie that is worth watching because it not just have a strong plot to tell a good story and also shows the reflection of the protagonist to defend justice.