Isabella (2006)
Isabella (2006) 8/10
Before acting in Isabella (the movie), Isabella Leong’s (the actress) biggest claim to fame was having the leading role in Bug Me Not!, a HK film so utterly wretched and painfully bad that one could consider it the Gigli of the East. She also had supporting roles is several other films, but most of the time she never distinguishes herself. But all is redeemed with Isabella (the movie) where Isabella Leong not only proves she can act, but very nearly steals the show from Chapman To.
Speaking of Chapman To, this hugely underrated actor proves that, with roles in Isabella and the most excellent Moonlight In Tokyo, that he is deserving of more leading roles. Often relegated to supporting cast or comic relief, its great to see Chapman To take on more substantial roles which better display his capablities. With Isabella (the movie), both Isabella Leong and Chapman To, in addition to displaying great chemistry, put in memorable performances.
Beautifully filmed, with the rustic allure of pre-handhover Macau as its backdrop, the film at times even displays hints of Wong Kar Wai. Directed competantly by Edmond Pang, who has made a couple of solid films like Men Running in Black and Beyond our Ken, Isabella is a funny, poignant and beautifully shot film. In a year where HK films are actually putting a strong performance, with titles such as Election 2 and Dog Bite Dog, Isabella ranks as possibly the best HK film of 2006 thus far. And the year isn’t even over yet.
The plotline for Isabella is simple, even predictable but the film just works simply because of the unlikely pairing of Chapman To and Isabella Leong, an almost beauty and the beast pairing that works remarkably well. Leong is a revelation because she displays impressive range and proves her acting mettle. If she continues on this streak, she might well be among the next generation of top leading ladies.
Overall, Isabella is that kind of rare gem that i didn’t expect to enjoy so much and yet charms with effortless ease.
