Spectacular Cinematic Ride Awaits!

Read Time:4 Minute, 12 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
A Moment Of Romance (Tin joek yau ching)
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Genre: Action, Crime, Drama
Year Released: 1990, 2023 Radiance Films
Runtime: 1h 27m
Director(s): Benny Chan, Johnnie To
Writer(s): James Yuen
Cast: Andy Lau, Jacklyn Wu, Ng Man-tat, Aaron Kwok, Kwong Leung Wong
Where To Watch: available August 22, 2023; pre-order now here www.radiancefilms.co.uk, www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Film enthusiasts and casual movie-goers prepare for a spectacular cinematic ride as A MOMENT OF ROMANCE unfolds! Dive headfirst into a world where danger meets passion; every turn, a heart-stopping surprise. Let’s introduce you to Wah, played by the charismatic Andy Lau, a man entangled in a mesh of high-octane crimes and electrifying street races. But what happens when fate deals with an unexpected card? He crosses paths with the vibrant Jo Jo, brought to life by the dazzling Chien-Lien Wu. And as the net of criminal adversaries tightens around them, their bond, initially tense and uncertain, evolves into something profound and touching.

While Benny Chan shows off his knack for directing with an evident flair, the nuanced performances of Lau and Wu steal the show, anchoring the narrative with emotion and depth. What starts as a seemingly typical story of an outlaw gradually unfurls to reveal the layers and vulnerabilities of Wah Dee's character. At the same time, Jo Jo, poised at the cusp of significant life changes, becomes captivated by Wah’s multifaceted personality. Their on-screen chemistry? Simply magnetic! It’s the kind that keeps you invested and rooting for them despite the numerous challenges thrown their way.

Speaking of challenges, the universe conspires against our lead pair. Whether it's the relentless Inspector, Jo Jo's mother's visions of a different life for her, or the cunning Trumpet, the crimelord-to-be, played with panache by Kwong-Leung Wong, the duo's journey is riddled with hurdles. Yet, amidst the chaos and heartbreak, James Yuen's screenplay weaves together high-stakes crime drama with tender, intimate moments, holding the viewer’s attention captive.

In the acting arena, both Lau and Wu deliver performances that can only be described as spellbinding. They seamlessly transition through a spectrum of emotions, ensuring audiences are tied to their journey, cheering them on, and feeling every high and low along with them.

A MOMENT OF ROMANCE blends electrifying drama, genuine emotions, and unexpected turns. Perfect for both connoisseurs of Hong Kong cinema and those just wanting a captivating story to unwind to. While the film excels in numerous areas, a deeper dive into the gritty details of the criminal world and perhaps a sprinkle of humor might have added an extra layer of brilliance. Nevertheless, one thing is evident by the end: this film doesn’t just play; it lingers, leaving an indelible mark. A solid four-star delight, no doubt about it!

SPECIAL FEATURES:
– 4K restoration of the film from the original camera negative
– Original uncompressed mono PCM audio
– Archival audio interview with Benny Chan, who discusses his start in the industry, A Moment of Romance, and his collaborators on the film (2016, 21 mins)
– In Love and Danger: HK Cinema Through A Moment of Romance – A new visual essay by critic and Asian cinema expert David Desser on the genre tropes in A Moment of Romance and their use in Hong Kong cinema (2023, 26 mins)
– Audio commentary by Asian cinema expert Frank Djeng
– Newly translated English subtitles by Dylan Cheung
– Trailer
– Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Time Tomorrow
– Limited edition booklet featuring new writing on the iconic cast and crew by critic Sean Gilman; and a profile of Benny Chan by Tony Williams, co-editor of Hong Kong Neo-Noir
– Limited edition of 3000 copies, presented in full-height Scanavo packaging with removable OBI strip leaving packaging free of certificates and markings

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[photo courtesy of RADIANCE FILMS, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

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