| Somehow you would naturally assume that being "confined" to the martial arts genre, Johnnie To's directing debut The Enigmatic Case would come off as a cheap, quick, generic kung-fu fest. Truly wrong, TRULY! Instead, it's the starting point of one of Hong Kong cinemas current driving forces, showing there was something wonderful brewing well before Milkyway was formed.
A slow, atmospheric story about restoring honour in a bleak world where that goal likely will come with a price, To puts forth nods to Westerners in this easily followed, affecting journey for Damian Lau's character. Within the enchanting cinematic tapestry, To genuinely affects and surprises, handing out chores for the action directors only at select times. Far from stylized, emphasis is on the struggle and the violence, some of which is rather tough on the senses. The film also marked the debut for Cherie Chung who divides her time between being a flower vase and eventually getting a valid role in the structure of the story. Also with Lau Kong, Chiang Han and Leung Gam-San. |