Writer: Joe Ma

Although the state of Hong Kong cinema is much approved now, it’s hard to forget the wretched state just a few years ago. ‘Big Bullet’ really stood out when it was released and remains a class act.

The action is still impressive, and deserves 4 stars, but the direction, annoying camera work and lack of real plot drag it down into the 3 star category.

Clifton Ko prefers to fill the film with dubious comedy and ‘Home Alone’-style action – certainly no compensation for even a few seconds of Sammo’s genius.

The film is reliant on the gentle charm of its principal cast and the genuine warmth of the relationships therein.

‘Embrace Your Shadow’ manages to be moving while sticking doggedly to established clichés, perhaps an oxymoron, but an achievement nonetheless.

The major problem with ‘Fighting For Love’ is the fact that the leading characters are so unsympathetic that the viewer cares little about their fight to be together.

The main problem of the film is the lack of development for the romance; the actual feelings between the two lacks genuine heart and therefore undermines any chemistry.

By avoiding Hollywood histrionics or schmaltz, a well-worn plot again manages to seem fresh and deeply moving.

At nearly two hours long, ‘Hidden Heroes’ is an ordeal that only those versed in S.A.S. survival tactics should ever attempt.

Although it is a lightweight effort that doesn’t generate too many belly laughs, ‘Love Undercover’ succeeds with an immense charm that sweeps the viewer away.

Joe Ma’s goal is to create a fun comedy that highlights the charm of Miriam Yeung and absorbs the viewer in her outlandish adventures – in this regard the film is a definite success.

The production cannot sustain its appeal nor can it do justice to the grand themes of loneliness/love that it attempts to tackle.