A Better Tomorrow

John Woo's first big film, where he tried to combine depth of characters with strong values and traditionally exaggerated and theatrical emotions, hand in hand with bloody ballet. It's not a total dud, but sometimes it unintentionally oscillates between a parody of family relationships and theatre, combined with almost splatter-like action full of whizzing bullets and litres of blood. With time, he managed to smooth and balance both. So far, the only film of this master that I don’t need to watch again. (10/02/2022)

A stylistic warm-up in which the bullets don't yet flow through the barrel so gracefully. However, I simply don’t enjoy watching the tense family drama with my personal aversion to Asian emotions. 3 ½. (02/17/2010)

A great story about two brothers on opposite sides of the law, where Woo includes a little less action (but where the action occurs, it’s that much more brutal), with a powerful dramatic feel to it. A surprising (rather sad) supporting role for Chow Yun-Fat. "Do you believe there's a God?" "Yes. I am God." (07/15/2019)

This is the first film by John Woo that truly brought him into the spotlight and made him synonymous with a director who can create an intense action spectacle. The star of his film is Yun-Fat Chow, who was never properly appreciated in American films, but here he delivers truly amazing performances. No kicks and punches, but a proper bloody showdown. That's the recipe Woo banked on, along with interesting characters and a decent storyline. And it worked. This is a good one to watch if you like grittier action. The strength of this film also lies in how it gracefully blends intense action, humor, and relational elements. (01/19/2014)