Infernal Affairs (2004)

The movie that inspired "The Departed" - which basically copied this movie from scene to scene to murder to murder --------------------------------------------- Tale follows two cadet school trainees , one becoming an investigative cop and one being an undercover . Assigned to arrest the Triad Kingpin - with moles on both sides things get complicated between both parties .It's a race against time to see who can reveal who's identity , with the stakes getting higher each passing day ...

Infernal Affairs is a film that has its roots in Hong Kong's historical and political background, and once this is understood, it adds many depths to the film. This play on double identity, and going undercover is related to how the people of Hong Kong struggle to find an identity as 'Hong Konger', as past colonial powers and the oppressive presence of China have large influences in hindering the formulation of their own identity.The acting is pretty great in this. Andy Lau has established himself as a very famous actor and singer. His acting is pretty good, but I kind of feel that his face gives off a pretty innocent and childlike aura. Tony Leung does a great job, and the film centralizes on him a little bit more I feel. We identify with him as he struggles to gain his identity back and the use of close ups of his facial expressions really convey his character's emotions. Anthony Wong and Eric Tsang also do a good job with their respective parts.The cinematography and editing are also pretty impressive. I really liked how they juxtaposed the younger versions of the two protagonists with their older selves at the end, that was cool. The many rooftop scenes are interesting as well, with fantastic shooting of the reflections in the skyscrapers.I also found the story to be very engaging. Of course undercover cops aren't anything new, but they aren't so common, plus there are two undercover characters and that makes the action twice as engaging. Also, since the film is heavily rooted in the country's background, that gives a local feel to it while still opening its doors to the international public. (It has been remade into a Hollywood film called, The Departed). Even though I have not watched the Hollywood remake, just by watching the trailer I know it will give off a totally different feel. I personally think the original will be better since then tension in this film is spot-on, while Hollywood just makes everything (mostly) into a swearing, bloody battle.My only critique is that the film jumps around sometimes from different timelines or in different spaces and that can be confusing. The story drifted a bit at times too, and there are instances in which events that occurred were questionable.Overall, an engaging film with great acting, cinematography and editing.Read more movie reviews at: championangels.wordpress.com

This is a story about two young guys. One is a police officer and he infiltrates a mafia. Other is a member of the mafia but works as a police officer. Both of them have done well and tried to get helpful information, hiding their identity for several years. However, because of an affair, police and the mafia notice there are spies in each organization... The heart beating doesn't stop. The story develops in good rhythm. Audiences can't take our eyes off. This film doesn't devote too much visual effect, that's good. The scenario is perfect and we can enjoy this high quality thriller. The Departed is also good but I like this better.

It was a watchable movie. I am not a Chinese. So my review does not get swayed by any emotional attachment with Hong Kong cinema. I feel a lot of Hollywood movies from the same genre have done much better. In this movie, the setting is good, actors are excellent but the plot is too predictable. I lost the excitement in the midway. Nothing edge-of-the- seat about it! As there is little to be revealed, the climax is also quite obvious. However, the movie has an extended climax (if you agree) which is a little more effective. Buddha's message sits well with the intended message the director wishes to convey. You will be made to think for a while about what exactly may happen next at the very end of the movie. That's one good thing about the movie.