Throw Down (2004)
Reviewed by: magic-8 on 2004-09-16
Summary: Kurosawa: Hong Kong Style
Johnnie To celebrates Akira Kurosawa with “Throw Down,” a contemporary take on the master filmmaker’s “Sanshiro Sugata,” told in Hong Kong cinema style. To’s homage gives us his most complete film since “The Mission.” The plot concerns a young upstart (Aaron Kwok), a has-been judo master (Louis Koo) and the reigning judo expert (Tony Leung). Louis Koo plays a down-and-out musician, running a nightclub. Besides drinking to excess, he has a gambling addiction and owes everybody money. Aaron Kwok hangs around waiting to challenge the former judo champion, while Tony Leung also bides his time, having waited over two years to challenge Koo. Cherrie Ying provides some comedic relief and pathos and is the lone woman in the film.

The cinematography by Cheng Siu Keung and the set design really evokes Kurosawa’s “Sanshiro Sugata,” especially with the finale. There are some bits with Koo, Kwok and Ying that are too cute, but thankfully, such fluff is washed over by some well-orchestrated scenes. The scene in the nightclub with four tables is quite amazing. While many viewers are drawn to Johnnie To films for the action sequences, his direction is most effective with the quiet scenes and the measured chaotic moments.

The judo is demonstrated in the fast, Hong Kong action mode. The holds and throws flash quickly across the screen, reflecting Yuen Bun's action choreography, which is very detailed and intricate. The cast worked with judo consultant, Alamdin Karim and his crew, and it shows. The wild brawl that overflows from the nightclub onto the streets is visually stunning and a testament to the cast’s hard work.

Aaron Kwok and the supporting cast stand out in “Throw Down.” To was even able to have Koo expand his acting range, somewhat, but he still has problems with transitions. It takes Koo a while before he gets into his stride. His character’s change of heart is almost imperceptible, but somehow everything works, even down to Koo's mumbling delivery. Not only is “Throw Down” a vastly entertaining movie, it’s also To’s best effort this year.
Reviewer Score: 8