The Iceman Cometh (1989)
Reviewed by: Mikestar* on 2002-11-17
Summary: This film shows promise..
Clarence Ford is rapidly developing a cult fanbase, renowned for creating Hong Kong "trashies" in the 1990s like 'Naked Killer, 'Her Name is Cat' and 'Cheap Killers'.

His films are often categorised as offensive, surreal and exploitative. As a creative figure however (much like Wong Jing), his perspective and vision must be recognised. 'The Iceman Cometh' symbolises his talent, and its channeling into engaging and reflexive forms.

Whilst the plot leaves a great deal to be desired (basically the story of a Ming Dynsaty soldier who is sent back in time to pursue an evil adversary but ends up as a lowly servant to a modern Hong Kong women), the style and pace of the narrative itself are impressive.

The action sequences are smoothly infused into the narrative (this more than anything else characterises Ford's unrealised potential) without detracting from character development and progression. Whilst largely set in modern day Hong Kong, strong motifs of tradition and mythology permeate the narrative, adding a sense of fantasy and non-linear perspective.

The performances themselves are highly admirable, with Yuen Biao well-cast as the naive and dislocated soldier, Maggie Chueng excellent as his flitty but redeemable boss, and Yuen Wah a standout as the villian.

Wah's charcter in particular, Fung Sam (along with the infamous Paul from "A Bullet in the Head") represents a highly deviant and menacing force. Much like Paul, Fung Sam is a man without principles of morality, brotherhood or community. His actions are centred on self-interest and opportunism. Depicted as a man without redemption or compassion, he exists entirely beyond rules and function of society. It is this type of charcter (more often that not) that represents the most vigorous and intense threat to Hong Kong society.

Overall 'The Iceman Cometh' is a stylistic hybird that portrays modern issues in a unconventional and veiled sense. Not the most compelling of Hong Kong films, it shows flashes of true brilliance and potential.