It's only when he tries to jazz up the film with style diverting from reality in the process, that his weaknesses are apparent. That is a choice that can be made to work but it's a fine line between success and disaster for those choices. Sadly, Chow's attempts leans towards the latter although his final shot is where he finally nails his wish for abstract style to walk alongside the reality of the film. Very much worthwhile and completely harmless, Merry Go-Round has enough positives to make you smile for the moment.

Co-starring Eric Tsang (who looks a bit battered due to an assault on him during production) and Helena Law Lan, both adding the suitable weight that's called for. Ann Hui, Kelly Chen and Vincent Kok also logs cameos. GC Boo Bi's screenplay (based on her own series of radio plays) was honored at the Hong Kong Film Critics Society Awards.