Review of Infernal Affairs (2002) by Chris S — 22 Sep 2010

I actually was able to see this before The Departed came out and this is the first time I think I've watched it since the Departed. It's sad to say that my liking for this movie has diminished since I saw the American remake because although IA is a good movie on its own, I keep getting the feeling everytime I see a familiar scene that The Departed did something to improve on it. And it also, in a way, brought to light the movie's negative points but I'll stop with the comparisons here.

The plot, direction, and acting is all solid, nothing to really complain. I actually liked Eric Tsang a lot more this time around; his style of acting seemed a lot more unique than other actors'. The editing and cinematography are also pretty well-done in most places but not all. And really, it's pretty well-made for a Hong Kong movie.

But there are some problems I have with small aspects of the film. For one, the editing, when it becomes flashy, especially in trying to connect past to present events, irks me a lot. The editing job is really good until those moments. The music feels a little too "action movie" for a movie that...doesn't really have that much action. It's a thriller but the music doesn't feel like it's protraying it as such. Some characters don't feel developed enough (like the psychiatrist or Lau's wife) or at all (Leung's ex-girlfriend, I mean WTF?! Why even put her in?) Some of the dialogue feels a little off. And even in its brisk pace, I don't feel too much attachment to the characters.

Either way, it's still entertaining and I definitely recommend it to those who enjoyed The Departed.