Beast Cops (1999) / Thriller-Action

MPAA Rated: Not rated
Running Time: 110 min.

Cast: Michael Wong, Anthony Wong, Kathy Chow, Roy Cheung
Director: Gordon Chan, Dante Lam
Screenplay: Gordon Chan, Hing-Ka Chan
Review published May 16, 2000

Tung is a slovenly whore-mongering police officer who is as attracted to the seedy side of town as he is in trying to bust it. Mike is a clean-as-a-whistle new guy assigned to be his partner, and also his roommate. Mike soon falls for a sweet-natured prostitute, but a local triad member has had his eye on her for a while and doesn't approve of her being with a cop. Tensions build between the triads and the cops, and a street brawl ensues.

The poorly-translated title BEAST COPS (no, these aren't cops that turn into beasts) is a likeable but meandering movie that maintains watchability despite never seeming to be particularly about anything. It's a collection of amusing characters and its lackadaisical style gives the dialogue a whimsical touch that is refreshing for a Hong Kong flick. You may not remember it a week later, but you probably will find it entertaining enough while it's going on to mind.

Qwipster's rating:

©2000 Vince Leo