1 Adrian Ruiz APP 315-42 Dr. Jung-Sun Park 10 September, 2023 The Killer: A Film Review The name of the film is called The Killer which was released in 1989. The film was directed by John Woo. The film features experimental speed action sequences throughout the film, John Woo seems to have used this film method which has been executed flawlessly, he also implements cross-cultural collaborations (Yau 12) . Woo’s usage of these methods capture the viewer’s attention and creates an enjoyable experience for the viewer from beginning to end, helping shape Hong Kong's cinematic identity as well. The Killer recounts the story of an assassin that has chosen to retire after one last job. Unfortunately Jong ends up blinding a woman named Jennie by firing a gun that was very close to both of her eyes. Jong feels regret, so he decides to spend his time with Jennie. After a visit with a doctor Jennie is made aware of her situation and needs to be treated with surgery to maintain whatever eyesight she still has left. A determined Jong sets out to kill a mob boss in order to pay for her operation. A cop named Li ultimately decides to help Jong with his ordeal. From a viewer’s perspective The Killer was a very intriguing watch due to the fast paced action sequences throughout the film. Although the film was released in 1989, it is clear that many other films were inspired by this film. I was really impressed and interested in how 2 dramatic the action sequences were, it seemed almost real. The actors really played their roles well. All throughout the film the cinematographic techniques really helped shape this movie into a classic. The usage of experimental syncretism, and cross-cultural collaborations were really special ( Yau pp 12-13). In the final portion of the film, there is a Mexican standoff in the film that you really appreciate especially if you're of that nationality. The Killer uses experimental syncretism to speed up action sequences as well to capture the viewer’s attention. The implementation of various cinematographic methods helped Hong Kong cinema in popularity and the discovering their identity (Yau 13). The Killer’s strong points are most definitely their filming techniques. Hong Kong’s action sequences have inspired American cinema in many movies (Yau 14). This goes to show how The Killer is one of many films to influence other countries. 3 Works Cited At Full Speed : Hong Kong Cinema in a Borderless World, edited by Esther C. M. Yau, University of Minnesota Press, 2001. ProQuest Ebook Central, https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/csudh/detail.action?docID=310538.
