Fu Bo

Ching-Po Wong's first feature is quite something else. It's a shame it's still not available in any decent format (even the original DVD release looks like a bad VHS transfer), though I assume it may be for lack of a decent source. The film's indie roots are apparent, don't go in expecting a typical Hong Kong movie.

Three characters are getting very close to death and are starting to see the beauty in the morbid. The first is a morgue assistant who has a hard time dealing with his colleagues, the second is a hitman for the local Triad, and the third is a cook who makes prisoners on death row their last meal.

The styling is ruined by the poor transfer, but the soundtrack still shines and the cinematography is interesting, to say the least. The plot is a little meandering but things do get better in the second half. It's a great start to Wong's career, but it's not up there with the rest of my personal favorites anymore.