Mad Detective(2007)
Mad Detective(2007) 8/10
Directors Johnnie To and Wai Kai Fai craft a curious, quirky detective drama that defies categorization. Not quite horror, not quite cop flick and almost Zen-like in conclusion, Mad Detective is exactly the sort of unconventional film-making that you expect from the likes of Johnnie To and the Milkyway film company. With plenty of familiar faces, it is however the ever dependable Lau Ching Wan who anchors the show with just the right balance of nuttiness and brilliance. The film is about a detective who sees people’s inner personalities, although how the film plays out will likely alienate audiences expecting predictable, safe fare. But those who actually want to watch a good movie will be thrilled by the excellent performances and how Johnnie To and friends work their movie magic. Even the somewhat open-ended downer ending is open to much interpretation. In short, its a film you should see and ranks as one of the best HK films of 2007.
