August 2009

A unique Hong Kong crime film that combines the three undisputed masters of Hong Kong cinema, Tsui Hark, Ringo Lam and Johnnie To, for a very exciting "tag team project, working a playful variation on the anthology film as each picks up this complex heist thriller where the former left off. Each of them directed a segment of the film, based on an action-packed and electrifying adventure quest they imagined as a team.

Life has not been kind to drinking buddies, Sam, Fai and Mok, as they struggle to make ends meet, until one stormy evening a mysterious old man appears before them in a bar with a "get rich quick" scheme: an ancient treasure is buried under a high-security government building. All they have to do is slip in and retrieve it, but what they find is a ceremonial robe embroidered with gold threads. According to Mok, who deals in antiques, the robe is worth millions, and the thought of instant wealth puts their friendship to the ultimate test as they are plagued with uncontrollable thoughts of greed. However, this treasure also attracts the attention of Ling, whose marriage to Sam is on the verge of collapse, and who plans to steal the robe and run away with her secret lover. Gangsters from the mainland are also hot on their heels and it seems that everybody wants to get their hands on the loot. Whoever has the strength and outright determination to survive this struggle will become the owner. Between survival, greed and friendship, Sam, Fai and Mok will ultimately have to make a choice.

Directed by Tsui Hark, Ringo Lam and Johnnie To, China/Hong Kong, 2007, 35mm, 100 mins, In Cantonese with English subtitles.

YouTube trailer     Tsui Hark bio     Tsui Hark interview     Ringo Lam bio     Johnny To bio

Cinematical     NewCity Chicago        

Showtimes:
Fri., Aug. 14 at 7 & 9 pm
Sat.-Sun., Aug. 15-16 at 3, 5, 7 & 9 pm
Mon.-Thurs., Aug. 17-20 at 7 & 9 pm

Tickets:
$9 general admission
FREE for Facets Members!

Order tickets online


For all Cinémathèque inquiries, contact Charles Coleman at 773.281.9075 or charles@facets.org

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