A Better Tomorrow
A Better Tomorrow

Movie spotlight

A Better Tomorrow

1986
Movie
95 min
Cantonese

A reforming ex-gangster tries to reconcile with his estranged policeman brother, but the ties to his former gang are difficult to break.

Insights

IMDb7.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes100%
Google Users95%
Director: John WooGenres: Action, Crime, Drama

Plot Summary

A former triad gangster tries to go straight after serving a prison sentence, but his past and his brother's disapproval make it difficult. He finds himself drawn back into the criminal underworld to protect his family and his former associates from a rival gang's escalating violence.

Critical Reception

A Better Tomorrow was a massive critical and commercial success, revitalizing the Hong Kong action cinema genre and establishing John Woo as an international filmmaker. It is widely hailed for its stylish direction, intense action sequences, and compelling melodrama.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its kinetic, balletic action and groundbreaking use of slow-motion.

  • Celebrated for its themes of brotherhood, loyalty, and redemption.

  • Chow Yun-fat's charismatic performance as Mark Gor became iconic.

Google audience: Audiences overwhelmingly loved the film's thrilling action, emotional depth, and unforgettable characters, particularly Chow Yun-fat's portrayal. Many highlight its impact on the action genre and its stylish presentation.

Awards & Accolades

Won Best Picture, Best Actor (Ti Lung), and Best Supporting Actor (Chow Yun-fat) at the 6th Hong Kong Film Awards. Nominated for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor at the 23rd Golden Horse Awards.

Fun Fact

The iconic sunglasses worn by Chow Yun-fat as Mark Gor became a fashion trend in Hong Kong and throughout Asia following the film's release.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
JPV852

JPV852

Really good Hong Kong crime-thriller from John Woo that features decent fight scenes and a great performance by Chow Yun-Fat in a supporting role. I'll be watching the sequel sometime next week. **3.75/5**