Plot: Kao wants to get rich fast, but that isn't as trivial as expected. Together with his friend Flathead and his girlfriend Pretzel, he concocts criminal schemes that should up their wealth in no time. But opening a gambling spot in the mountains isn't the best idea, neither are there attempts to meddle in a small entertainment hall.
Watches
September 20, 2024
Hou's deliberately slow pacing is nice, and there are some impressive scenes here. But overall, it didn't feel quite as special as it used to. I watched this film early on in my quest to see more Asian cinema, 30 years later it's all a little too familiar. And some lesser choices cost the film.
The performances are strong though and Hou's transportation scenes are as impressive as ever. The opening scene on the train is just magical. The cinematography is pleasant but something I've grown accustomed to, the soundtrack is a little different (rock/metal influences) but unfitting. I still enjoyed watching this again, but the film lost some of its shine along the way.
December 09, 2005
[review pending]