The Killer (1989)
When I first saw this ages ago, I was mostly taken a back by the incredibly well choreographed shooting scenes, but this time it was the tragic love story that ended up being the highlight. The action is still amazing of course, but there is clearly more ambition at display here than simply cool looking action. It is a story of regret, guilt, friendship and unfulfilled love. Asks the question of whether there is room for having a conscience or honor in the criminal world, as well as within law enforcement. Jong and Ying find shared common ground in the midst of the crazy gun battles and obscene body counts. This stands as one of John Woo’s absolute best.
Rating: 4.5