This movie rarely pauses to let you catch your breath (or figure out the plot) before another onslaught of stylish action wierdness happens. Like Jackie Chan's CITY HUNTER, this is a Hong Kong adaptation of a Japanese manga (comic) which would explain all the tentacle monsters in the movie (a particular Japanese obsession). I couldn't follow the plot but this film is so manic and overloaded with bizarre wham-bang special effects that only the most jaded of fans could dislike it.

I've seen this movie at least a dozen times, and never once, never, didn't I cry at the end! I'm glad this is my first impression of sci-fi movie (besides ET, when I saw it at 6, which I don't quite remember what was really going on until I become a grown-up) since I first saw it at the age 18. It forever influenced my view of sci-fi movies. Whenever I go to see sci-fi films, I always pay attention to the styles, the messages contained within, the connection between the imaginative world and the real life. For me, that is what sci-fi movies really about, not some fancy special effects.

The other day I was surprised to find out we have copies for sale in America, I order a copy at once. But I was also shocked to find that this wonderful film, probably the best Hong Kong movie I'd ever seen, was not received well here in America. Almost all the people who praise the film are Asian. I don't think this has something to do with culture gap, because this is a very unusual Hong Kong films, it didn't contain anything specific about the Asian culture. And that's the point. It is not anything you expect to see in a Hong Kong, or any other Asia films you can find here in the United States. It didn't have fancy martial art, no strange custom (which I strongly disagree with. They always portray Asia as bunch of strange, mysterious, sick places. Because that kind of films can easily won the prize in European film festivals). This is simply a film about humanity. At the same time, it was so beautifully done. Very stylish, with the music that was so heartbreakingly beautiful. But do see this film in its original language with subtitle. NO FOREIGN FILM SHOULD BE WATCHED IN ENGLISH DUBBED VERSION! IT IS ALWAYS THE BIG DISASTER!!! Do take a moment to think about what you see and enjoy that beautiful ending.

What can you say? Explosive action, intriguing characters, combined with a plot line that travels at one-thousand miles per hour. Think of Wicked City as a souped up "Blade Runner." Strong sexual content make this film probably not a good flick for younger kids to view, but the action and visual artistry make this a must see for those 17 or older. If you live near a video store that is up to stuff in the animae department. I urge you to check this little gem out. You won't be disappointed. On a personnal note, I've always thought that with the amazing special effects now in Hollywood, a major studio should turn out a live-action version of this killer animae. Enjoy.