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Cast:
Danny
Lee
Eddie
Chan
Parkman
Wong
Action:
Wong
Sha Man
Producer:
Guy
Lai
Frankie
Chan
Director:
Danny
Lee
Score:
  
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LAW
WITH TWO PHASES
AKA:
Law With 2 Phases
Year:
1984 Reviewer: Andrew
Saroch
Before
reaching national and international prominence in the mid-80s,
Danny Lee toiled away in t.v. series and the odd cinematic
appearance. Although his place in the cinematic hall of fame
was gradual and needed a few big productions to cement it,
Lee's award-winning performance in 'Law With Two Phases'
helped him to stand out in a crowded field. After this success
and a few more sterling roles, Lee would always be associated
with playing cops - especially in 'The
Killer'.
Although
policemen B (Lee) and Kit initially come to blows because of
their differing attitudes to the job, they eventually become
close friends. A defining moment in B's career occurs during a
routine pursuit of a dangerous suspect that takes a tragic
turn; a split-second mistake costs the life of a young boy in
the street and B is left devastated. Unable to fully
comprehend what he has done, the guilt-ridden B attends the
boy's funeral only to find himself attacked by the enraged
family. The now suspended cop sees his life spiral out of
control as he sees what the death does to the family and to B
himself. Another dramatic incident forces B to return to work
out of control and looking for a chance of redemption.
Gritty
and increasingly bleak, 'Law With Two Phases' is far removed
from the traditional police thriller or action film. It's
brave examination of a very powerful subject deserves
commendation as does its unflinching view of the effects on
the family of the victim. Danny Lee gives an excellent
performance as the tortured policeman and has rarely bettered
its intensity since. Lee also directs the drama with skill and
sensitivity; his ability to allow time for the characters to
show their inner-turmoil. For all the admirable qualities this
is still a film that has dated in terms of production.
Throughout the duration there is the feeling that this is a
drama from the past because of its rough edges and sadly these
do mean that 'Law With Two Phases' occasionally stumbles. With
that in mind it is clear that the episodic nature of portions
of the film hinder the overall fluency. As a whole, this is
nonetheless a worthwhile drama that provides intelligent
entertainment despite its faults.
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