Initial D (2005)
Reviewed by: JohnR on 2006-12-04
Summary: Initial: yes. Subsequent: no
If a racing movie is going to work, it has to do at least two things well: have exciting racing sequences and, without slowing the movie down, give you enough technical racing information so that you understand what's going on. Initial D accomplishes both of these with ease.

Add to that Anthony Wong's good performance as the retired racing god, now tofu maker, and a pace that keeps you moving along and you have all the highlights of the movie.

The lowlights are that none of the other actors does much or, in the case of Chapman To, does too much. And who's the casting director responsible for putting Chapman To and Jordan Chan into these roles? Jordan Chan is 38 years old; To is 34; they play guys in the 19-24 year old range. That didn't work, especially for To, who spends most of his time acting like an 8 year old.

If you want to watch a movie that shows the lives of young guys into street racing, in which the racing scenes are decent, then this is for you. But if you're expecting something more, you'll be disappointed because the nice camera work and cinematography don't make up for a lack of story and dull acting. Personally, I think it's worth a view, but can't picture myself watching it a second time.
Reviewer Score: 7