This Third Film from "new wave" director Patrick Tam, doesn't quite live up to promise or expectation.

The story is at times muddled and confusing, essentially focussing on two young couples who dream of sailing to Arabia and experiencing freedom. Their plan however is unravelled when 'Red Army' terrorist interfere, wreaking havoc and destruction by the time the credits are set to roll.

The scenes set in Hong Kong are well constructed, especially their focus on social class and separation. However, when the film moves to a desert island it loses all sense of realism. The ending in particular is unexpected and quite shocking considering the tempo up until that point.

Stylistically the film flashes some real potential, with a few distinct and impacting elements (lighting, shots). Specifically there is one memorable shot of a beach umbrella that lingers just long enough to create intrigue (much like style of many Japanese directors).

The acting is quite impressive here, particularly from the female leads, Cecilia Yip and Pat Ha. The film also features a young Leslie Cheung in one of his spolit-rich-yuppie roles. His presence however is dwarfed by his female counterparts. Ha, one of Hong Kong's highly underrated actresses is particularly striking here, as the flirtatious and enigmatic Kathy.

Patrick Tam is undoubtedly a director with great potential (its a pity he hasn't received widespread recognition for his work, particularly 'The Sword' and 'Love Masscare'). In this film however its the art direction and style which shines more clearly. The final result is a somewhat choppy and indeterminate film.