Nightfall

I saw the first 75% of this movie in a flight from Tokyo to Hong Kong. 25% was missed because I started watching a bit too late. I just watched it now and completed the film. "Nightfall" is a good drama / thriller which can be tightened. The plot and the atmosphere are first-rate. The editing and the overall storytelling, though, fall short. I watched it with this fluctuating feelings of high and low. Some parts are so gripping I can't take my eyes off. Some parts are so visually cut off of the rest of the film. I wouldn't be surprised if there is a case of walkout, and the walker would be definitely at a loss. The Simon Yam character is believable as a seasoned but sometimes weary-of-life police officer. His emotional final scene, with him receiving a phone message from the dead, is a good sum-up of the entire film. The Eugene Wang character, though, while physically convincing in every way, misses some good opportunities to give the film its deserving depth. I would have contrasted his hard face all through the film with the other serene and fulfilled one on his way down, as he has fulfilled every obligation as a man and a father. HIs slow-motion fall should have revealed to us an immeasurable love of a parent to his or her child. It will suit well with the girl's innocent question to the inspector: who is this man protector of mine? Anyway, this film will not fail to entertain you. Just like me: try asking all these silly questions after the end.