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E D I T O R I A L
Sunday, January 7: Year-End Round-Up
Out of the 15 films released during the year 2000 that I have seen so far, I liked most of them - which surprised me a little. Much has been written about the decline of Hong Kong cinema in recent years. Because I've only been following the scene for a few months, I'm not qualified to offer an educated opinion. I can say, however, that these somewhat representative 15 films stack up very well against American cinema during the past year.
Rather than post a "Top 10" (which seems silly since I've only seen 15), let me recap what I've seen, divided into various genres.
Hollywood-style action thrillers: Many long-time HK fans detest this type of film that aspires to international appeal. But, at this point, I can't dismiss anything out of hand. I enjoyed Tokyo Raiders and 2000 A.D.
Romances: Juliet in Love was exceptional and low-key; Needing You . . . a funny relationship comedy. Less successful were In the Mood for Love, which won international acclaim, but after two viewings I have yet to connect with it; Okinawa Rendez-vous, which was pretty but pointless; And I Hate You So, which was painfully slow; and Love Paradox, which was simply painful.
Hong Kong-style action: Not really an accurate description but these films, but kind of a catch-all. Jiang Hu - "The Triad Zone" and A War Named Desire are two excellent and very different crime dramas; Double Tap was not entirely successful but tried to do something different, as did Clean My Name, Mr. Coroner!. I recommend all four.
Finally, Spacked Out was a terribly effective and memorable look at aimless youth and Help!!! tried its hand at black comedy.
Taken as a whole, these films represent a genuinely electric mix. Many of the creative talents are clearly trying to do more than just imitate Hollywood, and for that they should be applauded and supported.
Besides Juliet in Love, Clean My Name, Mr. Coroner!, and A War Named Desire, I also watched Prodigal Son this week, an enjoyable Old School romp like nobody makes anymore.
As usual, feedback, whether positive or negative, is always welcome.
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