Johnnie To chiefly makes 2 types of films: shamelessly commercial dollar generators, and personal projects which can turn into financial disasters, which is why he continues to make the first type to be able to finance his personal projects. I would classify Throw Down somewhere in between. It took home about $8 million HKD (according to Brns.com), and employs 2 leading pop stars. But its subject matter is risky in HK cinema (e.g. not guaranteed for success), and I am sure Johnnie didn't direct Throw Down for the sole purpose of generating cash. The result is a fine product. I was sold after 20 minutes or so.

[7/10]