If you think Hong Kong demon films of the 90s are limited to Mr. Vampire or A Chinese Ghost Story, check out Wicked City (Thai title: Mueang Na Khan... Khrai Ja Kon Hai Man Kliang) and you'll realize that Hong Kong cinema has more audacity in its DNA than you thought. This film adapts Hideyuki Kikuchi's novel, the same source as Vampire Hunter D, but reinterpreted in a Hong Kong action-horror style full of blood splatter, bizarre effects, and cross-species relationships that are both sexy and terrifying.
Plot Summary (No Spoilers)
The world is about to end the peace treaty between humans and the 'Black World,' a parallel dimension teeming with demons. Young detective Taki (Leon Lai) and his demon partner Maki (Jacky Cheung, female) are assigned to protect a key diplomat negotiating a new treaty. However, radical demons from the Black World seek to assassinate the diplomat to prevent peace. The story unfolds with chases, fights, and revelations linking Taki's past to the Black World, aided by Windy (Michele Reis), a mysterious girl with special powers.
Acting and Characters
Leon Lai plays Taki with sufficient toughness but appears too stiff in many scenes. Meanwhile, Jacky Cheung as Maki stands out with fierce and sexy acting befitting a captivating demon. Michele Reis as Windy is beauty tinged with menace; she charms every time she appears. Villains like Roy Cheung and Tatsuya Nakadai perform well, though their roles lack depth, they still add interest to the story.
Direction, Cinematography, and Music
Director Peter Mak Tai-Kit employs neon-lit and dark imagery reminiscent of Blade Runner, but with a chaotic Hong Kong twist. The special effects from the 90s may look dated by today's standards, but they are creative and 'so-bad-it's-good,' especially the demon transformation scenes that are chillingly designed. The score by Richard Yuen enhances the tense atmosphere, though at times it overpowers dialogue, becoming slightly annoying.
Editorial Analysis
What makes Wicked City interesting is its seamless blend of Western sci-fi with Asian demon lore. The film boldly presents sex and violence without compromise, which was daring and risky for its time. Although the plot is shallow and full of holes, the fast pacing and audacious action scenes keep it from being boring. However, the film didn't gain much popularity in Thailand, possibly because its comedic Thai title misled audiences into thinking it's a comedy, when in fact it's a serious horror film in its own right.
Verdict
<p>Wicked City is not the best Hong Kong film, but it is audacious and uniquely stylish. It suits those who enjoy 90s sci-fi horror that isn't afraid of being cheesy and want to see something fresh from Asian cinema. If you open your mind to its chaos, you'll find an experience that is both fun and memorable.</p>
Screenshots
👍 Pros
- +Creative and chilling demon designs and transformations
- +Neon-lit, dark atmosphere reminiscent of Blade Runner
- +Outstanding performances by Jacky Cheung and Michele Reis
- +Fast-paced, audacious action that never lets up
👎 Cons
- −Very dated special effects that may bother modern viewers
- −Shallow plot with several plot holes
- −Soundtrack sometimes too loud, drowning out dialogue
Top Cast
FAQ
It is based on the novel Wicked City by Hideyuki Kikuchi, who also wrote Vampire Hunter D.
Only one film in 1992, but there is an anime adaptation from 1987.
It is moderately scary, with horror scenes and blood splatter, but not extremely terrifying. Suitable for fans of action-horror.
Yes, Jacky Cheung plays 'Maki,' a female demon detective, in a notable cross-gender performance.
