1920: An American kid in Shanghai befriends a grubby street-urchin, but their cross with a triad boss leads to violence and separation. 1930: When the American comes back, their burgeoning partnership again brings them into the fold of organized crime -- with their relationship now at risk. The set decoration, photography, and crowds of extras make this look more like Godfather 2 than the upscale sludge it is, and it's sorta sad that a smart screenplay would have made all the difference.

(2.5/4)



[Reviewed by Steve Spinali]