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Long Arm of the Law II

Long Arm of the Law II (1987)

Aug 29, 1987 1h 29m Action Crime

This sequel to the critically-acclaimed box-office winner Long Arm of the Law maintains the same stark realism of the original. In Saga Two, the Royal Hong Kong Police put into operation a new plan to counteract the problem of increasing violent crimes committed by new arrivals from across the border in China. In agreement with Chinese authorities, three Hong Kong detectives go undercover as illegal immigrants in order to infiltrate the powerful gang that is organizing the crime wave. The action is tough and graphic, reminiscent of The French Connection, Hong Kong style.

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Directed by Michael Mak Tong-Kit

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Michael Mak Tong-Kit
Writer
  • Philip Chan
Producer
  • William Leung
  • Johnny Mak Tong-Hung
  • Stephen Shiu Yeuk-Yuen

Reviews

Hotsake
7.5/10

A brutal, gritty, no holds barred tale of three criminals recruited to go undercover and break up a criminal ring. The film is melodramatic and confusing at times but makes up for it with earnest portrayals and a hardcore, non-flinching approach to gang violence and the people on both sides of the law who use increasing amounts of violence to get the job done. It also shows loyalty and betrayals on both side without really choosing sides or glorifying the violence shown. Elvis Tsui is definitely an underrated actor. There is an abundance of raw action, stunts and violence with just a smidgen of Martial Arts, so if you like gritty no bullshit movies and/or heroic bloodshed films look no further.
After seeing this one I'm definitely tracking down the first and third stand alone films in this series.

Oct 28, 2015

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Thematic Analysis

This high-octane Action/Crime film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Long Arm of the Law II distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.

Director Michael Mak Tong-Kit 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 1987, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Long Arm of the Law II took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 89 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
  • The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The film contains approximately 1304 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 1987, when this film was released:
  • Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
  • Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: August 29, 1987
  • Runtime: 1h 29m

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