Human Sentiment Law
Human Sentiment Law

Movie spotlight

Human Sentiment Law

1988
Movie
95 min
Mandarin

Hsiung is an honest inspector who finds his career jeopardised by his mother, prostitute Fung's presence in the district he polices. The ambitious Hsiung finds himself torn between duty and love.

Insights

IMDb6.7/10
Director: Johnnie ToGenres: Action, Crime, Drama, Thriller

Plot Summary

When his partner is killed during a botched sting operation, a dedicated detective goes undercover to infiltrate a powerful triad. He must navigate a dangerous world of crime and betrayal, risking his life and his sanity to bring the perpetrators to justice. The investigation leads him down a dark path, blurring the lines between his true identity and the criminal persona he must adopt.

Critical Reception

Human Sentiment Law is a gritty and intense crime thriller that showcases the early directorial prowess of Johnnie To. While not as polished as his later works, the film is praised for its taut pacing, strong performances, and realistic portrayal of police work and organized crime. It is considered a significant entry in Hong Kong's crime genre.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its raw intensity and authentic depiction of the criminal underworld.

  • Features compelling performances, particularly from its lead actors.

  • A solid example of the Hong Kong crime thriller genre from the late 80s.

Google audience: Information not readily available for Google user ratings.

Fun Fact

This film marked an early collaboration between director Johnnie To and actor Tony Leung Chiu-wai, who would go on to achieve international fame.

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