Why As Tear Go By is a masterpiece
by WKW Shop Admin
·
Wong Kar Wai's directorial debut, "As Tears Go By," is a gritty crime drama that explores the themes of loyalty, violence, and love in the underworld of Hong Kong. Released in 1988, the film marked the beginning of Wong Kar Wai's illustrious career in the Hong Kong film industry and was a significant achievement in world cinema.
The film tells the story of Wah (Andy Lau), a low-level gangster in Hong Kong's criminal underworld, who becomes conflicted when he is asked to take care of his volatile and troubled cousin, Fly (Jacky Cheung). As Wah tries to protect Fly from danger and keep him out of trouble, he is pulled into a world of violence and betrayal that threatens to tear his world apart.
Wong Kar Wai's directorial style is evident in this film, with its sharp and dynamic cinematography by Christopher Doyle and a haunting soundtrack that perfectly captures the mood of the film. The film's exploration of themes such as violence, loyalty, and love are handled with nuance and sensitivity, making it a thought-provoking piece of cinema.
"As Tears Go By" was a significant achievement in the Hong Kong film industry, setting a new standard for crime dramas in the region. The film was also influential in the world of cinema, particularly in its impact on contemporary crime dramas.
The film's success also paved the way for Wong Kar Wai's future projects, including "Days of Being Wild," "Chungking Express," and "In the Mood for Love." All of which are known for their striking visuals, unconventional narrative structures, and exploration of universal themes.
If you're looking for similar films, Wong Kar Wai's later works, such as "Fallen Angels" and "Happy Together," explore similar themes and are also highly regarded in the world of cinema. Other crime dramas worth watching include "City on Fire" by Ringo Lam and "A Better Tomorrow" by John Woo.
Overall, "As Tears Go By" is a cinematic masterpiece that showcases Wong Kar Wai's unique directorial style and vision. Its exploration of themes such as violence, loyalty, and love are handled with nuance and sensitivity, making it a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and world cinema.
