The 1980s was an incredible decade for filmmaking in Hong Kong. The area had rapidly modernized and was in the midst of a financial boom that had started in the 1970s. This period of rapid growth coincided with what many regard as the height of Hong Kong cinema.
Throughout the 1980s, Hong Kong stars like Jet Li, Chow Yun-Fat, and Donnie Yen began their rise to become the iconic figures in the action film genre as we know them today. Meanwhile, many of Hong Kong’s more prominent studios engaged in intense competition, as they tried to outdo one another both financially and creatively.
Within this dynamic film landscape, director John Woo made a significant impact with the release of “A Better Tomorrow” in 1986, solidifying Hong Kong’s reputation as a major player in the international film industry.
“Infernal Affairs,” released in 2002, was heralded as a potential savior for Hong Kong cinema with its star-studded cast and capable direction by Andrew Lau and Alan Mak.
Double Lives
Chan Wing Yan (Tony Leung Chiu-wai) has spent a decade undercover within the triads (Asian crime gangs), leading to doubts about his mental stability and commitment. At the same time, Lau Kin Ming (Andy Lau) has risen to the rank of police inspector while secretly working as a mole for the triads.Ming provides intelligence to Hon Sam (Eric Tsang), a ruthless triad leader whom Yan currently serves. Sam’s primary nemesis is Superintendent Wong Chi Shing (Anthony Wong) of the Hong Kong police force, and Yan is his clandestine link to the cops and their various anti-triad activities.
Hon Sam soon sets up a big drug deal with some Thai gangsters. It goes south when suspicions arise on both sides about the presence of a mole within their ranks. Both Yan and Ming are tasked with uncovering the traitor in their ranks.
While it soon becomes apparent that Ming’s true loyalties remain ambiguous, Yan navigates the treacherous waters of the criminal underworld, constantly under threat from both factions.
Both Ming and Yan find themselves navigating the harsh realities of the underworld’s ruthlessness, and the intricate politics and bureaucracy of law enforcement. As their identities blur, they are pushed to their limits, grappling with the realities of leading double lives.
Lingering Questions
One head-scratching aspect were the characters’ motivations. Supposedly, Yan seeks to leave his shadowy undercover life behind, while Ming’s seemingly selfish motives raise questions about his true intentions. A little more clarity on each of their characters would have enriched the narrative. The film earns praise for character development but treads familiar genre ground. I thought both Ming and Yan’s characters only scratched the surface.The lack of character development is offset somewhat by the film’s gripping tension and pursuit between the two undercover characters. Despite a few narrative conveniences, the escalating cat-and-mouse dynamics create intense cinematic suspense.
Directors Andrew Lau and Alan Mak steer the narrative sharply, delivering well-crafted plot twists that sustain momentum, while only briefly (thankfully) touching on obligatory romantic subplots.
The cinematography adeptly captures Hong Kong’s diverse environment, smoothly transitioning from the shadowy underworld to the bustling cityscape. Clear visuals of the Kowloon skyline, framed by towering skyscrapers and modern architecture, enhance the area’s unique allure. Skillful editing techniques, including slow-motion sequences and dramatic close-ups, intensify the characters’ precarious struggle, adding to the unfolding sense of a high-stakes battle.
Some critics consider it overhyped and lacking fresh perspectives or daring innovations. Nevertheless, “Infernal Affairs” showcases solid craftsmanship, impeccable production values, and stellar performances that effectively synergize without exploring new narrative territories.
