Task Force (1997)
Reviewed by: MilesC on 2001-03-09
Summary: Sometimes I really blow it.
The first time I saw and briefly reviewed this film, I was nonplussed; I found its scattershot approach and lack of a straightforward plot off-putting. Patrick Leung's previous film, Beyond Hypothermia, left me with certain expectations about the film that weren't met. Now let's try again...

With the near-death of Hong Kong's unique and superior brand of action, die-hard fans are left to sift through the remains for films that can provide something different from Hollywood fare. This gap is, increasingly, being filled by films like Task Force; a little action, a little drama, and some comedy, all tied together with a certain sense of sincerity that mainstream Hollywood (and, these days, big-budget HK) movies lack. Although this is something of a "kitchen sink" movie, it's far from Wong Jing; everything is there because this is the story of several people and their ups and downs. Those who are looking through anything violent-sounding for Hong Kong's last remaining action gem will be disappointed, but those watching without expectations will find something to like in this laid-back and enjoyable film.
(Note about the "stealing" mentioned in the above review: the scene mentioned is an obvious spoof.)