Cast
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Johnny Hallyday
as Francis Costello
Anthony Wong Chau-Sang
as Lee Yuen Kwai
Gordon Lam Ka-Tung
as Yiu Ka Chu
Lam Suet
as Tsui
Simon Yam
as George Fung
Michelle Ye Xuan
as Big Mama
Sylvie Testud
as Irene Costello
Vincent Sze Cho-Lam
as Thompson Cheung Chi Shun
Felix Wong Yat-Wah
as Python
Eddie Cheung Siu-Fai
as Wolf
Berg Ng Ting-Yip
as Crow
Maggie Siu Mei-Kei
as Insp. Wong
Stanley Fung Shui-Fan
as Tony Cheung
Farini Cheung Yui-Ling
as Chan Siu Ling
Elena Kong Mei-Yee
as Wolf's Wife
Crew
Director
- Johnnie To
Producer
- John Chong
- Peter Lam Kin-Ngok
- Michèle Pétin
- Laurent Pétin
- Wai Ka-Fai
- Johnnie To
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Crime/Thriller film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Vengeance distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Johnnie To brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2009, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Vengeance took approximately 17 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 108 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 165 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 56 unique compositions.
- The costume department created over 279 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2009, when this film is released:
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Vengeance shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Mask of Zorro, which focuses more on action than character development, Vengeance subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Last of the Mohicans and Thir13en Ghosts explore similar territory, Vengeance stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: May 20, 2009
- Runtime: 1h 48m
