wiseguy333

Hak bak sam lam (2003)

Masterful direction, what all neo-noirs should be.

Jing Wong's "Color of the truth" is the kind of films that great directors are remembered by, with beautifully crafted cinematography and just the right mix of editorial features, it is a signature addition to Wong's body of work. A perfect mix of hard-nosed cops and gangsters who die trying.

One of the most powerful scenes of film came early on in the opening sequence, where an undercover informant played by Ching Wan Lau is confronted by his supervising officer played by the delightful Anthony Wong and his mark, a local mob boss played by the colorful Francis Ng.

On a beautifully lit rooftop, (a love letter from cinematographer Edmond Fung to his camera) the trio are put in what may stand alongside Tarantino's "Reservoir Dogs" as one of the best Mexican stand-offs in world cinema to date.

In an attempt to conceal his cover, Seven up (Lau) gently reassures his commanding officer by placing his hand on Huang's(Wong) shoulder, focus is pulled to the foreground leaving Lau's face and the rest of the conversation to take place in the unfocused background.

The performance by Anthony Wong brings a refreshing quality and adds a darker persona to his already impressive repertoire. Comic genius Man Chat To has acquired the kind of master timing that most comics only dream about, playing the "wacky assistant" role, reminiscence of Stephen Chow's standout performances.

It may be far too early to be branding the year¡¦s ¡§best¡¨ but if ¡§Color of the Truth¡¨ is forgotten when the awards draw near, it will be a shame as well as a mystery.

Daniel Chan (Independent Filmmaker)