Synopsis:

When police officials are given a CCtv tape of some unidentified police officers abusing a suspect, CAPO (Complaints Against Police Officers) launches an investigation to find those responsible. Seems like everyone knows it was Sam (Simon Yam) and his team, although no one's talking. And now it seems the suspect from the tape is wanted on some other serious crimes as well. Sam will have to work hard to keep CAPO from finding out about his harsh methods, and still do his job. Meanwhile fellow police officer Eight (Lee-Kwok Lun) is being demoted per policy when he reports the massive debt he's currently under.


Story Revu:

I purposefully didn't include the trailer here (although I found one) because it's one of those trailers that gives away the whole movie. The Code is the first film in a TV miniseries based on the characters of Johnnie To's 'PTU.' Now it's not really necessary to see 'PTU' to enjoy any of these films, but if you're planning to watch some or all of the series you should start there. From a stylistic and production standpoint it is far superior to the subsequent films. While The Code still has Johnie To's name attached to it at a production level, without having him behind the camera you don't get to have the cinematography or dark comedy he brings to the table. While in all these ways it's inferior to 'PTU', there's one way in which it's better. It has a much more fulfilling narrative. The issues I had with the disappointing ending of 'PTU' don't follow into this movie, and the whole thing hangs together really well. The acting is still top notch, with Lee Kwok-Lun doing some really admirable work, and the movie builds the tension remarkable well (although not quite as efficiently as 'PTU' does.) If this film had the budget of 'PTU' and Johnnie To behind the camera it would be a far superior film.


Action Revu:

Much like the original, this isn't an action film. It's a sloooow character-centric cop drama. But, if you're paying attention, and are invested in the story and the characters as much as you should be, the tension in the final sequence is palpable.

Overall:

Stylistically weaker but narratively stronger than 'PTU' with some fantastic actors doing great work. If you want to see this type of film, you won't be dissappointed.

3.5/5 Stars

Finally caught up on requests now, so if you have a martial arts or Asian film your wondering about, let me know and I'll take a look at it!