In "Detective vs. Sleuths," director Wai Ka-Fai reunites with Lau Ching-Wan, delivering a captivating and action-packed film that showcases the latter's acting prowess. While not a direct sequel to the 2007 Milkyway classic "Mad Detective," the film shares thematic similarities and demonstrates the creative evolution of the director-actor duo.
The story revolves around a cop killer on the loose in Hong Kong. While the police force believes they have apprehended the culprit, Ching-Wan's character, a mentally unbalanced but brilliant detective, suspects foul play. Dismissed from duty after voicing his theory publicly, he spends the next 17 years in a downward spiral until a vigilante group known as "The Chosen Sleuths" emerges. Determined to uncover their true identities, Ching-Wan's character embarks on a quest to solve the mystery.
Lau Ching-Wan's return to a role that fully utilizes his acting abilities is a refreshing change. In recent years, he has been typecast in action roles that haven't allowed him to shine. Paired with director Ka-Fai, the duo demonstrates their effective collaboration, evident from the engaging scenes of Ching-Wan conversing with imaginary characters and chasing supernatural beings.
After a long hiatus from directing, Wai Ka-Fai returns with "Detective vs. Sleuths," showcasing his signature style, reminiscent of the distinctive Milkyway productions. The alleyway shootout sequence, complete with atmospheric lighting and impactful gunshot effects, carries the familiar stamp of the renowned production house. However, the absence of co-director Johnnie To is felt, as his restraint in "Mad Detective" kept the narrative from straying too far into the realm of madness. Here, Ka-Fai allows the film to go unrestrained, resulting in an exhilarating rollercoaster ride.
The film deviates from its predecessor's brooding and off-kilter tone, opting for an action-packed approach. Lau Ching-Wan's character engages in high-octane pursuits, including a shotgun chase through a night market, clinging onto car roofs during vehicular chases, and even battling winged demons with a machine gun. The relentless pace keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, and action director Jack Wong delivers kinetic and impactful sequences.
However, the increased focus on action seems to come at the expense of character development. While the background of "The Chosen Sleuths" is hinted at, the audience is left with shallow characterizations and minimal insight into their motives beyond seeking revenge. Similarly, essential details about Ching-Wan's character, such as his wife's death, are delivered through exposition rather than being shown, possibly due to censorship concerns regarding mental health discussions. Although these concessions are understandable, they result in a lack of depth.
Interestingly, the film's compromises and workarounds, necessary for Mainland distribution, contribute to unexpected character deaths that add a layer of creativity and unpredictability. This trade-off may be acceptable to some, complemented by the film's entertaining action sequences, while others may find it less appealing.
The supporting cast, featuring notable Hong Kong talent like Charlene Choi, Raymond Lam, and Carmen Lee, adds depth to the film. Choi portrays a pregnant detective assigned to the case, and Lam plays her husband, both involved in investigating "The Chosen Sleuths." The pregnancy angle, a familiar trope in Hong Kong action cinema, introduces elements of peril and tragedy. Carmen Lee's return to the screen as the police commissioner is a pleasant surprise, evoking nostalgia for her past roles in classic Hong Kong films.
Approaching "Detective vs. Sleuths" as a 1990s Hong Kong action cinema throwback proves to be the most rewarding perspective. The plot receives more attention than the on-the-fly productions of the 1980s, and the film embraces a go big or go home approach to action, featuring a mix of bullets, explosions, and skillfully implemented CGI. Despite its breakneck pace, Ka-Fai successfully manages to navigate the challenges of an 11-year hiatus, delivering an entertaining film even without the presence of Johnnie To and the Milkyway production house. Notably, the film pays homage to a Jason Statham scene from "Crank!," further adding to its appeal.
In conclusion, "Detective vs. Sleuths" delivers a thrilling and action-packed experience that showcases Lau Ching-Wan's acting abilities. Director Wai Ka-Fai brings his unique style to the film, although the absence of Johnnie To is felt. While character development takes a back seat to the film's relentless action, the trade-off allows for unexpected plot twists. Overall, the film is an enjoyable ride that pays homage to classic Hong Kong action cinema while showcasing the evolution of its director-actor duo.