Danny also wrote and directed this one himself, which he has done quite a few times in his career. But I don't think he ever matched this movie in any of his subsequent efforts.

This is a well written and poignant street level view of the volatile relationship between cops, criminals, and the general public. There are no real good guys or bad guys here, just people living with the choices they've made in life. And for a Danny Lee flick, that is really refreshing.

The two most prominent characters are Danny Lee, as the seasoned street cop who knows the game and is not above bending the law, but who soon discovers the weight of the responsibility that comes with carrying a badge and a gun. The other is Parkman Wong, as the low level triad who lives from day to day, hustling and street fighting, but wants to be a big shot, without really knowing what that entails before it's too late.

Both actors deliver some excellent performances, infusing a lot of humanity into these time-tested stereotypes. And while the acting itself is fairly broad, as it often was in this era, they both manage to move us with their portrayals. There is a wide array of good side characters as well, such as Tai Po, in a memorable stint as the beaten down neighborhood junkie, plus a great ensemble of people portraying the local residents, who seem to hate the cops more than the criminals.

There is not much action as such. But what there is, is well done and has impact. It is part of the drama, instead of being action for action's sake.

In my mind, Danny Lee crafted a nice little slice of 80's HK street life with this movie. That shouldn't be missed by any fan of the genre.