Cast
View All
Anthony Wong Chau-Sang
as Chik Chi Ming
Liu Wai-Hung
as Sai
Lau Kong
as Police Chief Shih
Lee Shing-Cheong
as Shek
Lee Siu-Kay
as Prisoner
Lee Lik-Chi
as Taxi Driver
Power Chan Kwok-Pong
as
Wong Yat-Fei
as
Wong Man-Biu
as
Teresa Ha Ping
as
So Hon-Sang
as
Ho Bik-Kin
as
Cheung Bik-Kei
as
Yuen Bun
as
Gilbert Lam Wai-San
as
Crew
Director
- Lee Lik-Chi
Writer
- Lee Lik-Chi
Producer
- Lee Tim-Sing
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
The Set Up represents a fascinating example of Crime/Thriller/TV Movie cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Lee Lik-Chi 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 1990, 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 The Set Up took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 141 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 72 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1990, when this film was released:
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Set Up shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Anatomy of a Crime, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Set Up subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like George Carlin: Life Is Worth Losing and Hope & Fury: MLK, the Movement and the Media explore similar territory, The Set Up stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 1, 1990
- Runtime: 1h 35m
