The second of Johnnie To's three homages to John Woo's "The Killer" is also one of his most memorable films, with a terrific script full of witty and clever writing, and a well developed relationship between the two leads, making you actually care about their fate. To kept his camera moving rapidly throughout, and that combined with the strong editing and pace made for a gripping film that simply refused to lose my attention. The score by Raymond Wong was effective and fit every scene like a glove, especially during the rather poetic ending, which managed to surpass my expectations. Instead of ending with a generic shootout, the movie goes for a more unique approach that benefits it in the long run. Andy Lau and Ching Wan Lau were quite frankly perfect in their roles; charismatic, subtle, subdued, and entertaining to watch. Although listed as an action movie, this is really a drama of loyalty, friendship, and honor, much like Woo's masterpiece being alluded to here. Unlike Woo's film, however, it never once steeps into melodrama or becomes overbearing with emotion. It's played mostly straight, with some genuine laughs here and there, and it deals with the issue of cancer in surprisingly good taste. Fans of Hong Kong cinema owe it to themselves to give this a watch if they haven't already.
Review of Running Out of Time
