"On The Edge" Review

Hong Kong police movies have been pretty rampant throughout the industry over the past half century. With the release of the blockbuster “Infernal Affairs” in 2002, Hong Kong police movies have been smarting up in terms of storytelling and plot twists.

Cinematographer cum Director Herman Yau is at the reigns of Hong Kong’s latest police drama which stars Nick Cheung (“Election”), Francis Ng (“Infernal Affairs 2”, “Gen X Cops”), Rain Li (“Goodbye Mr. Cool”) and Anthony Wong (“Initial D”, “Infernal Affairs”). It tells the story of young cop Harry (Cheung) who was assigned to go undercover for the triads for the past 8 years (which is his entire career) where he is to gain confidence of the mob and gather evidence against the head honcho Don Dark (Ng). The movie explores the human element, which sees the emotional side of a person that lives a lie and actually becomes one of the bad guys who he is trying to bring down.

The film is told in a series of flashbacks, but this is done nicely. It begins with Harry finally taking in his ‘boss’ Don Dark after sticking with the triad for four years. Needless to say, after the initial arrest, Don Dark’s boys are all in a ruckus over the mole that they put their trust in. However, things are not so rosy on Harry’s side as well, as he feels unaccepted by the police force and is constantly being tailgated by the IIO (Internal Investigations Organisation) and is left out of police briefings. Being with the triad for so long, Harry feels ‘in-between’ and confused on where he belongs.

The acting skills of Nick Cheung here is what makes the movie excel in its own right. His portrayal as the lost and brooding cop Harry is believable and credible. Veterans Anthony Wong and Francis Ng were also great in their respective roles, although Wong seemed to be a little misplaced but worked his magic as an arrogant field officer (we usually see him as a Superintendent). Rain Li plays Harry’s love interest that works in karaoke lounges and is the eye candy of the film.

Running at about 90 minutes, this film would actually fare better if it were at least thirty minutes longer. Reminiscent of “Infernal Affairs”, the film has the potential to cover a lot more ground on its characters and story.

If you like crime stories that are story driven and gripping, then by all means watch “On The Edge”. You won’t be disappointed.

Grade: B+