Dark Turns in a Game of Chance

Read Time:3 Minute, 38 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Casino Raiders (Zhi zun wu shang)
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Genre: Action, Crime, Drama
Year Released: 1989, 2023 Eureka Classics Blu-ray
Runtime: 2h 5m
Director(s): Jimmy Heung, Jing Wong, Corey Yuen
Writer(s): Jing Wong, Jimmy Heung
Cast: Alan Tam Andy Lau Rosamund Kwan Lung Fong Charles Heung Kenzo Hagiwara Kirk Wong Chi-Keung
Language: Cantonese with optional English subtitles
Where To Watch: available now here www.eurekavideo.co.uk, or www.amazon.co.uk

RAVING REVIEW: We enter the vibrant world of the late '80s and early '90s Hong Kong cinema with CASINO RAIDERS, a standout in the Action/Crime genre. Directors Jing Wong, Jimmy Heung, and Corey Yuen have dealt a hand that’s more than just a gamble—a cinematic adventure combining the electrifying drama of high-stakes gambling with the adrenaline rush of action sequences.

The deep bond and shared trials of Sam Law (Alan Tam) and Crab Chan (Andy Lau) are at the film's core. The film takes off with Chan’s release from prison, catapulting us into an action-packed narrative that explores themes of loyalty and friendship against the backdrop of glittering casino floors. Adding a romantic subplot mixes additional complexity into the plot, enhancing the emotional stakes.

As the plot deepens, the story turns darker when Chan’s gambling ability is compromised, putting their friendship to the test and leading to a high-octane climax. The film's strength lies in its rich character development, providing a depth that mirrors the authenticity of these characters' worlds. However, these detailed backstories occasionally slow the narrative momentum. It would have been interesting to see what creative editing could have accomplished here.

The portrayal of the world built here is nothing short of exceptional. CASINO RAIDERS captures the tension and thrill of this subculture, while Henry Chan's cinematography adds a visual layer, using light and shadow to reflect the film’s emotional shifts.

Lau and Tam deliver remarkable performances, bringing their characters to life with genuine depth. Despite some role limitations, the supporting cast provides strong performances, meaningfully contributing to the film's intricate storyline.

CASINO RAIDERS shines in its third act, where it transforms into a spectacular display of action and suspense. The climactic final scene is a cinematic triumph, offering excitement that stands toe-to-toe with the best showdowns in film history.

Despite some overdone melodrama and minor plot issues, CASINO RAIDERS marks its territory in Hong Kong cinema. Its fusion of diverse genres, dynamic character portrayals, and thrilling action sequences make it a must-watch, appealing to both genre enthusiasts and general audiences.

CASINO RAIDERS transcends being just another film; it's a captivating narrative that plays a significant role in the evolution of cinema in this part of the world. It delves into themes of friendship, betrayal, and the gripping world of high-stakes gambling, offering an absorbing experience for viewers. While its pacing and darker themes might not resonate with everyone, it's essential for anyone interested in this genre and the rich history of Hong Kong cinema’s golden era. CASINO RAIDERS is a gamble that pays off in the movie-watching world.

SPECIAL FEATURES
– Limited Edition O-Card slipcase featuring artwork by Grégory Sacré (Gokaiju) [2000 copies]
– 1080p presentation on Blu-ray from a restoration of the original film elements
– Original Cantonese audio track
– Optional English subtitles
– Brand new feature-length audio commentary by Asian film expert Frank Djeng (NY Asian Film Festival)
– Brand new feature-length audio commentary by action cinema experts Mike Leeder & Arne Venema
– Brand new featurette by CFK (Crazy From Kong) looking at the “gambling film” craze that hit Hong Kong cinema in the late 1980s and early 1990s
– Brand new interview with Billy Chan
– Original theatrical trailer
– A Limited Edition collector’s booklet featuring new writing by David West [2000 copies]

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[photo courtesy of EUREKA VIDEO]