Review of Shanghai Triad (1995) by James Berardinelli for ReelViews — 25 Mar 2017

With its underworld violence and straightforward narrative, Shanghai Triad may be Zhang's most accessible film to date. It is not, however, his best work, having neither the epic scope of To Live nor the quiet emotional power of Raise the Red Lantern.

Yet there is still much to like about Shanghai Triad, not the least of which is the production's gorgeous look (credit the director and his cinematographer, Li Xiao). Shanghai Triad overflows with memorable imagery and atmosphere.

And, as this film verifies, a weak entry by Zhang is often far more engrossing than a strong entry by many other directors.