Ban Wo Zong Heng
1992 / 90m - Hong Kong
Crime, Drama
1.5*/5.0*
Rhythm of Destiny poster

Watches

June 07, 2014

1.5*/5.0*

One of Lau's earliest films. Like most Hong Kong directors, Lau started off making generic genre fluff. There's really no effort made to put a personal stamp on the project, it's more about learning the trade, and getting a title on the shelves. From that perspective, it's a pretty decent affair still, but unless you want to complete Lau's oeuvre there's no hard incentive to seek this one out.

Two brothers are polar opposites. One is a reasonably successful singer, the other a sneaky jewel thief. They are leading completely different lives, but even so, they decide to open up a nightclub together. They mean well, but when the bar attracts the wrong kind of clientele, trouble starts brewing and the relationship between the two is heavily tested.

A generic genre film, that's what you're getting. Second-rate actors in lead roles, a very predictable plot, bland cinematography, and a negligible score. Nothing about this film draws attention to itself. It's a good way for a director to get himself acquainted with his job, but sadly, it doesn't make for a very good film.