Today’s quick review: Infernal Affairs. Hong Kong mob boss Sam (Eric Tsang) sends Lau (Andy Lau), one of the youngest members of his gang, to join the police department and act as his eyes and ears inside the force. At the same time, Superintendent Wong (Anthony Wong) chooses Yan (Tony Leung), his most promising cadet, to go deep undercover within Sam’s organization. The two soon become each other’s greatest enemies.
Infernal Affairs is a Hong Kong crime thriller with a strong premise and excellent execution. Infernal Affairs pits an undercover cop against a mole in the police department in a tense cat-and-mouse game. The movie follows up on this promising start with a sensible script, striking plot twists, and crisp presentation. Infernal Affairs is an exemplary crime drama from start to finish and a worthwhile watch for any fan of the genre.
Infernal Affairs bears comparison with The Departed, its American remake. The two films share almost identical plots, but they differ in tone and pacing. Where The Departed is a drawn-out, gritty tale of betrayal, Infernal Affairs takes a more balanced approach. Its characters are easier to like, its story is streamlined, and its violence is restrained. In exchange, Infernal Affairs sacrifices some of the raw impact of its American cousin.
The difference between the two ultimately comes down to taste. American viewers are likely to prefer The Departed for its more elaborate plot and star-studded cast, but anyone who’s even remotely interested in the premise would do well to give Infernal Affairs a shot. It stands as both a sleeker alternative to The Departed and a rewarding movie in its own right.
8.1 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.5 to 8.0 for an excellent plot and polished execution.