Director Herman Yau presented one heck of an outstanding production with excellent directing and cinematography. The writing had a few plot and technical issues, and for the most part was predictable. I feel some filler scenes could've been cut down or out to make the 120 min runtime closer to 100, based on the amount of substance in the storyline. The performances were all on point and convincing, and the fights scenes were perfectly choreographed. The V/SFX were actually quite impressive for the most part, with just a few sloppy CGI scenes. I found the score to be a little cheesy and overbearing, especially in the beginning. Otherwise, it was a fun thrill ride, worth seeing if you're into this type of action films. A well deserved 8/10 from me.
22 Reviews
Protagonist's emotional twist
licharlesli27 February 2021
It's a decent action flick if you can shut down your brain for logic for 2 hours ... but with 1 serious problem
sprayeddog-4426321 June 2021
The good thing about a lot of Herman Yau's movies is good or bad, they don't drag. He understands action is his strength and he doesn't waste much time in character development or melodrama setup. And I believe for the most part the movie delivers on the.fast paced action. Andy Lau's character is much deeper than his usual HK action hero setup and surprisingly, I think he did a good job with it too. Sean Lau OTOH, has very little to work with for his character and when the movie ends you can barely remember much about his character other than it just keep the plot going.
But assuming most audience are in the theatre for the action I think a few of the bomb defusing scenes do keep you on the edge of your seats. Now there are things that make no sense logically in the movie (for starter, just because you jump into a swimming pool it doesn't mean you can survive a jump from 10 stories high), and the plot twists also makes no sense if you come to think of it - the police chiefs who you told the audience just 10 minutes ago are too chicken to take the risk and do the right things, all of a sudden buys into a super risky proposal which they have nothing to gain from. But just forget logic and fine, you can at least enjoy the twists and the action ... and the action scenes don't disappoint ...
... with the exception of 1 major problem : the subway train scenes (it is not a spoiler, you see that in the first min of the movie). That is, by far, the WORST CG I have seen in a movie since maybe the late 90's. What the heck was that? The movie seems to have overachieve with a limited budget and the result was pretty disastrous visually. I don't think that is acceptable even for a TV series in 2021, never mind a blockbuster movie. I tried to overlook but it was a pretty glaring letdown.
All in all, good action flick with a weak plot that makes little sense, a few misses here and there but it's still a solid 7/10 to me.
But assuming most audience are in the theatre for the action I think a few of the bomb defusing scenes do keep you on the edge of your seats. Now there are things that make no sense logically in the movie (for starter, just because you jump into a swimming pool it doesn't mean you can survive a jump from 10 stories high), and the plot twists also makes no sense if you come to think of it - the police chiefs who you told the audience just 10 minutes ago are too chicken to take the risk and do the right things, all of a sudden buys into a super risky proposal which they have nothing to gain from. But just forget logic and fine, you can at least enjoy the twists and the action ... and the action scenes don't disappoint ...
... with the exception of 1 major problem : the subway train scenes (it is not a spoiler, you see that in the first min of the movie). That is, by far, the WORST CG I have seen in a movie since maybe the late 90's. What the heck was that? The movie seems to have overachieve with a limited budget and the result was pretty disastrous visually. I don't think that is acceptable even for a TV series in 2021, never mind a blockbuster movie. I tried to overlook but it was a pretty glaring letdown.
All in all, good action flick with a weak plot that makes little sense, a few misses here and there but it's still a solid 7/10 to me.
Amazing
Gordon-117 March 2021
This film completely blew me away. Right from the start, I was captivated by the intensity of the story. It does not slow down at all, and keeps me entranced every second right until the end. I am quite amazed by the quality of the production of this film. The only thing I could complain about is that the female lead's Putonghua mouth movements does not match her spoken Cantonese words. Otherwise, I truly lived very second of this film!
Good action thriller, but still not better than SHOCK WAVE.
paulclaassen14 June 2021
Bigger and better - this is the general motto when it comes to sequels, it seems. But is it always better to go this route?
Sometimes sticking to a formula that worked, is better. The first 'Shock Wave' had a simple premise and it was high profile entertainment. It was realistic and therefore more suspenseful. With 'Shock Wave 2' they attempted Hollywood style action sequences with lots of CGI. Although the action sequences are fast paced and well done, they are not necessarily better than its predecessor. Having said that, it is also not bad. It is thrilling and exciting and the stunts are incredible. There is no suspense here, though, and the film is not as intense as 'Shock Wave' was, and doesn't have the same emotional impact of the first film.
Andy Lau is back, but as a different character. His character, Poon Shing Fung, reminds us of Bourne in the original Bourne film, where he can't remember much and trying to unravel his past - trying to determine whether he is a good guy, or the bad guy. For most parts, it works well. Andy Lau is a great actor and the action sequences more than compensated where the plot lacked credibility. There's also an exciting 20-minute finale.
Would I watch it again? Maybe, but I do prefer 'Shock Wave'.
Sometimes sticking to a formula that worked, is better. The first 'Shock Wave' had a simple premise and it was high profile entertainment. It was realistic and therefore more suspenseful. With 'Shock Wave 2' they attempted Hollywood style action sequences with lots of CGI. Although the action sequences are fast paced and well done, they are not necessarily better than its predecessor. Having said that, it is also not bad. It is thrilling and exciting and the stunts are incredible. There is no suspense here, though, and the film is not as intense as 'Shock Wave' was, and doesn't have the same emotional impact of the first film.
Andy Lau is back, but as a different character. His character, Poon Shing Fung, reminds us of Bourne in the original Bourne film, where he can't remember much and trying to unravel his past - trying to determine whether he is a good guy, or the bad guy. For most parts, it works well. Andy Lau is a great actor and the action sequences more than compensated where the plot lacked credibility. There's also an exciting 20-minute finale.
Would I watch it again? Maybe, but I do prefer 'Shock Wave'.
Over emotional roller coaster ride into oblivion!
omendata20 April 2021
Done like only the eastern film makers do with lots of emotional scenes, overly sentimental music, overblown special effects, totally implauseable bomb making and some chop suey kung fooey thrown in...but I love it; as well as the ending it makes a refreshing change to the endless Marvel hollywood remakes.
Acting is well above average and the CGI for the most part is actually not bad at all and it does not follow many what we in the West would call the standard movie making rules which is a good thing and makes it the more enjoyable. It is a real popcorn out and just switch brain off type of movie and is well above par - Solid 6.5 out of ten!
Acting is well above average and the CGI for the most part is actually not bad at all and it does not follow many what we in the West would call the standard movie making rules which is a good thing and makes it the more enjoyable. It is a real popcorn out and just switch brain off type of movie and is well above par - Solid 6.5 out of ten!
Fun, if flawed action thriller
alain-kapel528 March 2021
Finally got to see this. The sequel to 2017's fun action thriller again stars Andy Lau, but the two films' stories are unrelated. That doesn't mean you're not gonna see Lau defusing bombs again, because that's exactly what's up in the first portion of the film. He and Sean Lau are both bomb squad experts and personal friends, as we get to know very early on. But events happen that force them to be separated and Andy becomes a wanted man.
What transpires from this basic setup is an entertaining action film that's fast paced and almost gripping at times. There is a quick succession of shootouts and chases that doesn't let up until the film's 50 minute mark. It's somewhere in those minutes that the film's flaws become more apparent and the film less involving. You realize that the plot is as generic as they come, with some barely believable twists and turns taking place. And the action grows a bit stale with little inspiration from more successful Asian action thrillers, especially in regard to distracting special effects (so much CGI blood).
Still, there are individual moments here that make up for the film's shortcomings. The ever present threat of nuclear doom hangs over the proceedings, lending SW2 a darker feel than its predecessor. Pulse-quickening bomb defusing sequences offer some of the film's highlights, but that doesn't mean there aren't enough spectacular explosions here to satisfy everyone's destructive spirit.
Having said that, you still remain kind of underwhelmed after it's over. Just a sense that more could have been done with the plot and the film's intensity should have been more frequently on a higher level, given that the runtime sometimes feels stretched out. However, it's a good way to spend 2 hours of undemanding fun if you're up for it, just don't expect a great HK action thriller like we used to get until a few years ago.
What transpires from this basic setup is an entertaining action film that's fast paced and almost gripping at times. There is a quick succession of shootouts and chases that doesn't let up until the film's 50 minute mark. It's somewhere in those minutes that the film's flaws become more apparent and the film less involving. You realize that the plot is as generic as they come, with some barely believable twists and turns taking place. And the action grows a bit stale with little inspiration from more successful Asian action thrillers, especially in regard to distracting special effects (so much CGI blood).
Still, there are individual moments here that make up for the film's shortcomings. The ever present threat of nuclear doom hangs over the proceedings, lending SW2 a darker feel than its predecessor. Pulse-quickening bomb defusing sequences offer some of the film's highlights, but that doesn't mean there aren't enough spectacular explosions here to satisfy everyone's destructive spirit.
Having said that, you still remain kind of underwhelmed after it's over. Just a sense that more could have been done with the plot and the film's intensity should have been more frequently on a higher level, given that the runtime sometimes feels stretched out. However, it's a good way to spend 2 hours of undemanding fun if you're up for it, just don't expect a great HK action thriller like we used to get until a few years ago.
Ambiguity and Calculation - Review of Shock Wave 2
kampolam-7581327 March 2022
Warning: Spoilers
After the reopening of Hong Kong theatres in 2021, two Chinese and foreign films seized the majority of the screen. The re-cooperation between Herman Yau and Andy Lau, "Shock Wave 2", successfully broke through the box office of 10 million Hong Kong dollars (1.27 million US dollars), and won the Hollywood blockbuster "Wonder Woman 1984". In fact, the film was originally scheduled to be released in December 2020. Unfortunately, due to the impact of the epidemic, the theaters were closed and will not be released until February 2021. The film is overdue for release in the Mainland China and Taiwan, and the results are still satisfactory.
"Shock Wave 2" is a re-cooperation after the success of "Shock Wave" five years ago. The story and characters have been rewritten, but the same theme is used. Strictly speaking, it is another film. But this time Herman Yau recruited Lau Ching Wan and co-starred with Andy Lau as a pair of bomb disposal experts, which reminded me of the 1994 Hong Kong comedy "Bomb Disposal Officer: Baby Bomb" directed by Jamie Luk, also starring Lau Ching Wan. Interestingly, the first scene of "Shock Wave 2" it tells the tacit understanding of the two protagonists' mission to rescue a couple who were tied to a bomb. It originated from the first act of "Bomb Disposal Officer: Baby Bomb". It is unknown whether Herman Yau paid tribute to the director (Jamie Luk) of the same period. In fact, there are not many films about police bomb disposal experts in Hong Kong Cinema, and Jamie Luk's comedy can be said to be the first bomb disposal expert film to play a positive role. Five years ago, "Shock Wave" is believed to be influenced by this to some extent. Inspired by the old work, the explosion scene is set in the Cross-Harbour Tunnel, which is influenced by John Woo's early comedy "Plain Jane to the Rescue".
Many comments have said that "Shock Wave 2" has the characteristics of a Hong Kong action film. Among them, Andy Lau's undercover scene at the opening of "Shock Wave" turned into "Shock Wave 2" where the police turned into terrorist, then turned into undercover agent, and then turned into renegade terrorist. In the first action, in order to save a kitten hidden in a microwave oven, the protagonist lost a calf in an explosion and became a disabled person. His superiors transferred him to a civilian post and became paranoid because he could no longer go to the front line. A hotel explosion site was injured and lost his memory. His girlfriend, the chief inspector of the counter terrorism task force had his memory implanted. It was assumed that he was an undercover agent sent by the police to a terrorist organization. This scene appeared as early as in "The Accidental Spy" directed by Teddy Chan and starring Jackie Chan. After gradually recovering their memory, the audience now learns in flashbacks that the mastermind of the terrorist organization turned out to be a childhood classmate with the protagonist. In the end, the protagonist witnessed the former colleague being ravaged by terrorists, and "back to nature" to made sacrifices.
In fact, there are a lot of incomprehensible and offensive points in the film. The director uses the strengths of Hong Kong Cinema to reverse the plot, so that the audience has no time to think about whether it is reasonable or not. The so-called "fast to slow" formula controls the viewing rhythm, attracting the audience to watch it with action and spectacle scene after scene until the end of the film. Although the audience will recall a lot of incomprehensible and sloppy explanations after watching the whole film, the whole process is quite enjoyable, and they still leave the film satisfied and complete a pleasant consumption process.
As for Herman Yau, since he joined the big production, the performance of "Shock Wave" and "Shock Wave 2" is quite good, especially his rough and sloppy production in the past has been greatly improved, especially some of the bomb disposal and explosion. The scenes are all very detailed and beautiful. However, the Davy Crockett shell used at the end of the film is the smallest nuclear weapon in the world. It was deployed in the former West Germany during the Cold War. Its main task is to spread nuclear radiation and paralyze the enemy. The bombing function is not like the nuclear bomb during World War II. The tsunami caused by the bombing of the Tsing Ma Bridge in the film should be just what the plot needs.
On the other hand, the main brain of the terrorist organization "Resurrection Society" played by Tse Kwan-Ho is believed to be the weakest and unconvincing part in the film. The rich second generation and anti-social personality can only make waves on a small scale. It is a bit ridiculous to integrate Chinese and foreign people to join, and to have members like soldiers. On the contrary, Lau Ching-Wan and Andy Lau have gone from being partners to being hostile, and working together again. Although there are many emotional and unreasonable places, they are still credible in appearance. As for the girlfriend played by Ni Ni, she used Andy Lau to lose his memory and forcibly implanted the memory to complete the task, stepping on a steel line between good and evil. When accused by Lau Ching-Wan who learned the truth, she thought that her boyfriend's evil deeds would be redeemed. Pushing him to death/sacrifice wholeheartedly is the most dimensional plot of the film.
After "Shock Wave 2" was released in Hong Kong, because the film is set in Hong Kong and has the main elements of Hong Kong action films, it has received a lot of attention and praise in public opinion. It tells the story of a police officer who has changed from a good person to a bad person, and then becomes a hero of self-sacrifice. Get used to the comments analyzed by text reading, take what you need, and extend infinitely. As a master student of cultural studies, Herman Yau should understand the "mystery". (Herman Yau obtained a master's degree in cultural studies from Lingnan University (Hong Kong) in 2008) The film leaves a lot of space for all parties to "source". Ambiguous is a form of artistic expression, and it is also a kind of accomplishment, but it becomes artificial and awkward if it is too calculated. Here, I am reminded of the promotional short film "Guarding Our City" by Dante Lam for the Hong Kong police force, which also has the theme of terrorist bombing activities. Although it is different from the film that was released to the public, Dante Lam's simplicity and directness require more courage and strength. Off-topic, the police said that only Dante Lam applied for this promotional short film project that day, which shows how precious it was that he was willing to take on this hot potato.
Finally, back to "Shock Wave 2", the bomb disposal experts played by Andy Lau have become social elites with professional knowledge. They have mastered a lot of ability to build or destroy society, become paranoid in the face of setbacks, and can become devil-like terrorists at any time. In recent years, many people describe a group of highly educated professionals as "high-score and low knowledge". Maybe they are the elitist mentality, unable to accept the loss or no longer valued in reality, and paranoia is born from this, entering the so-called magical real world, and it is difficult to extricate themselves. This is my interpretation of the film, I hope the experts can enlighten me.
By Kam Po LAM (original in Chinese)
"Shock Wave 2" is a re-cooperation after the success of "Shock Wave" five years ago. The story and characters have been rewritten, but the same theme is used. Strictly speaking, it is another film. But this time Herman Yau recruited Lau Ching Wan and co-starred with Andy Lau as a pair of bomb disposal experts, which reminded me of the 1994 Hong Kong comedy "Bomb Disposal Officer: Baby Bomb" directed by Jamie Luk, also starring Lau Ching Wan. Interestingly, the first scene of "Shock Wave 2" it tells the tacit understanding of the two protagonists' mission to rescue a couple who were tied to a bomb. It originated from the first act of "Bomb Disposal Officer: Baby Bomb". It is unknown whether Herman Yau paid tribute to the director (Jamie Luk) of the same period. In fact, there are not many films about police bomb disposal experts in Hong Kong Cinema, and Jamie Luk's comedy can be said to be the first bomb disposal expert film to play a positive role. Five years ago, "Shock Wave" is believed to be influenced by this to some extent. Inspired by the old work, the explosion scene is set in the Cross-Harbour Tunnel, which is influenced by John Woo's early comedy "Plain Jane to the Rescue".
Many comments have said that "Shock Wave 2" has the characteristics of a Hong Kong action film. Among them, Andy Lau's undercover scene at the opening of "Shock Wave" turned into "Shock Wave 2" where the police turned into terrorist, then turned into undercover agent, and then turned into renegade terrorist. In the first action, in order to save a kitten hidden in a microwave oven, the protagonist lost a calf in an explosion and became a disabled person. His superiors transferred him to a civilian post and became paranoid because he could no longer go to the front line. A hotel explosion site was injured and lost his memory. His girlfriend, the chief inspector of the counter terrorism task force had his memory implanted. It was assumed that he was an undercover agent sent by the police to a terrorist organization. This scene appeared as early as in "The Accidental Spy" directed by Teddy Chan and starring Jackie Chan. After gradually recovering their memory, the audience now learns in flashbacks that the mastermind of the terrorist organization turned out to be a childhood classmate with the protagonist. In the end, the protagonist witnessed the former colleague being ravaged by terrorists, and "back to nature" to made sacrifices.
In fact, there are a lot of incomprehensible and offensive points in the film. The director uses the strengths of Hong Kong Cinema to reverse the plot, so that the audience has no time to think about whether it is reasonable or not. The so-called "fast to slow" formula controls the viewing rhythm, attracting the audience to watch it with action and spectacle scene after scene until the end of the film. Although the audience will recall a lot of incomprehensible and sloppy explanations after watching the whole film, the whole process is quite enjoyable, and they still leave the film satisfied and complete a pleasant consumption process.
As for Herman Yau, since he joined the big production, the performance of "Shock Wave" and "Shock Wave 2" is quite good, especially his rough and sloppy production in the past has been greatly improved, especially some of the bomb disposal and explosion. The scenes are all very detailed and beautiful. However, the Davy Crockett shell used at the end of the film is the smallest nuclear weapon in the world. It was deployed in the former West Germany during the Cold War. Its main task is to spread nuclear radiation and paralyze the enemy. The bombing function is not like the nuclear bomb during World War II. The tsunami caused by the bombing of the Tsing Ma Bridge in the film should be just what the plot needs.
On the other hand, the main brain of the terrorist organization "Resurrection Society" played by Tse Kwan-Ho is believed to be the weakest and unconvincing part in the film. The rich second generation and anti-social personality can only make waves on a small scale. It is a bit ridiculous to integrate Chinese and foreign people to join, and to have members like soldiers. On the contrary, Lau Ching-Wan and Andy Lau have gone from being partners to being hostile, and working together again. Although there are many emotional and unreasonable places, they are still credible in appearance. As for the girlfriend played by Ni Ni, she used Andy Lau to lose his memory and forcibly implanted the memory to complete the task, stepping on a steel line between good and evil. When accused by Lau Ching-Wan who learned the truth, she thought that her boyfriend's evil deeds would be redeemed. Pushing him to death/sacrifice wholeheartedly is the most dimensional plot of the film.
After "Shock Wave 2" was released in Hong Kong, because the film is set in Hong Kong and has the main elements of Hong Kong action films, it has received a lot of attention and praise in public opinion. It tells the story of a police officer who has changed from a good person to a bad person, and then becomes a hero of self-sacrifice. Get used to the comments analyzed by text reading, take what you need, and extend infinitely. As a master student of cultural studies, Herman Yau should understand the "mystery". (Herman Yau obtained a master's degree in cultural studies from Lingnan University (Hong Kong) in 2008) The film leaves a lot of space for all parties to "source". Ambiguous is a form of artistic expression, and it is also a kind of accomplishment, but it becomes artificial and awkward if it is too calculated. Here, I am reminded of the promotional short film "Guarding Our City" by Dante Lam for the Hong Kong police force, which also has the theme of terrorist bombing activities. Although it is different from the film that was released to the public, Dante Lam's simplicity and directness require more courage and strength. Off-topic, the police said that only Dante Lam applied for this promotional short film project that day, which shows how precious it was that he was willing to take on this hot potato.
Finally, back to "Shock Wave 2", the bomb disposal experts played by Andy Lau have become social elites with professional knowledge. They have mastered a lot of ability to build or destroy society, become paranoid in the face of setbacks, and can become devil-like terrorists at any time. In recent years, many people describe a group of highly educated professionals as "high-score and low knowledge". Maybe they are the elitist mentality, unable to accept the loss or no longer valued in reality, and paranoia is born from this, entering the so-called magical real world, and it is difficult to extricate themselves. This is my interpretation of the film, I hope the experts can enlighten me.
By Kam Po LAM (original in Chinese)
Forever young Andy Lau
xiaohei-8011224 January 2021
Finally come a great Hongkong action movie since its glory moment in the 90s.action, editing, camera angle all done in world class standard.Should focus more time in Andy Lau turning good again, but overall still great.
Morality is da bomb
kosmasp6 June 2022
Visually this is as stunning as it can be. Story wise you may have some issues. And your moral compass might also be in the way - from you enjoying this. Because after all is said and done, this is supposed to be entertaining.
Andy Lau is always worth watching and in this sequel he is phenomenal. His character does take some turns here that you just have to go along with. I actually thought of some cliches that would explain things ... but no, this does not take any prisoners in that regard. Can you dig that? If so, you are in for quite the excitement.
Andy Lau is always worth watching and in this sequel he is phenomenal. His character does take some turns here that you just have to go along with. I actually thought of some cliches that would explain things ... but no, this does not take any prisoners in that regard. Can you dig that? If so, you are in for quite the excitement.
Dry, Unrealistic and Predictable
therealjaysmoke28 August 2021
Warning: Spoilers
I can't really say I truly liked anything about the movie because I've seen many Hollywood movies do it and done it better. From the action scenes, to the explosion, to even the storyline. There was nothing new here. I actually was very annoyed how easy these guys made disarming a bomb looked. It was so laughable. The storyline was interesting until he lost his memory and then went fighting for the very people who hurt him. I mean, am tired of these type of story. If you going bad, make sure you have the balls to stay bad.
Thrilling, adrenaline rush
bananasonata1 March 2021
Andy Lau's darker role in brainless action movie
witra_as9 August 2021
Another 'switch you brain off' kind of HK action film from Herman Yau. Some decisions by its characters might be questionable but cast did great job to keep the shooting and explosion going at a fast pace. Andy Lau got darker role to deliver emotional payoff.
CGI train wreck
Suave-430 December 2020
Andy Lau finally arrived and
MovieIQTest12 March 2021
Has become one of the best Chinese actors from H.K. He matured perfectly and finally evolved into a completely believable and convincing actor who likes all the great famous actors with house known faces, but the characters he or she played, their images would evolve into those roles they played, no matter their faces so familiar to us, the characters they played became the virtually believable persons on the screen. Andy Lau finally became such actor, he aged well and matured perfectly.
This movie is perhaps one of the very best suspenseful cop thrillers I've ever seen so far. Screenplay, directing, cast, editing, CGI effects, stunt, choreography, montage...and best of all, the voices in Mandarin are so good, almost in impeccable level. The romance between the two main characters was so well performed and profound. No unnecessary sexual scenes, only embraces and one last kiss.
The female leading actor, a truly talented natural performer I rarely found in Chinese movies, a great future star ensured.
If I have to find a flaw, it would be the make-up of the terrorist leader, bleached snow white long hairs, white jacket...Jesus, no terrorists, especially the leader would dress and look so outstandingly and so ridiculously obvious; a very bad cartoon character that you don't find he's evil enough.
This movie is like ride on a roller coaster, not even one moment dull or lax, from the very beginning to the final climax. Absolutely well done! A milestone and the highest standard that might not be easy to transcend in the coming years for movie production.
Highly recommended. So why still scored 9/10? Nothing is perfect, but this one is a near perfect one.
This movie is perhaps one of the very best suspenseful cop thrillers I've ever seen so far. Screenplay, directing, cast, editing, CGI effects, stunt, choreography, montage...and best of all, the voices in Mandarin are so good, almost in impeccable level. The romance between the two main characters was so well performed and profound. No unnecessary sexual scenes, only embraces and one last kiss.
The female leading actor, a truly talented natural performer I rarely found in Chinese movies, a great future star ensured.
If I have to find a flaw, it would be the make-up of the terrorist leader, bleached snow white long hairs, white jacket...Jesus, no terrorists, especially the leader would dress and look so outstandingly and so ridiculously obvious; a very bad cartoon character that you don't find he's evil enough.
This movie is like ride on a roller coaster, not even one moment dull or lax, from the very beginning to the final climax. Absolutely well done! A milestone and the highest standard that might not be easy to transcend in the coming years for movie production.
Highly recommended. So why still scored 9/10? Nothing is perfect, but this one is a near perfect one.
A good movie!!!
ryanmo-3517820 February 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Watched the first one and already think it was good. This is a brand new story where the story is reasonable. Pity that Andy's leg was lost, and it is understand that he became a crime. The scenes are so explosive, especially to destruct the bridge. But he gotta die again. Really eager to watch again.
highly overrated and unrealistic
jindann10 April 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Spoilers :
Lots of action, but thats about the single good thing about it. Story's too unrealistic doesn't make sense, for someone loses his career for disability and decide to destroy a city is totally laughable, no one would ever do such a thing let alone to nuke hong kong. Acting again too unnatural and overly exaggerated, dialogues are childish like book reading instead of normal conversation. These are common problems of hk movies today, too unrealistic and highy overrated. Actions are ok, but again a lot of stuffs are just too unconvincing, like shooting the bomb suit with sniper rifle, even if the bullet doesn't get through the person would likely fell taking a ton of pain, instead of taking them like bee stings and continuing his job which is ridiculous. Pushing the train with another is again another silly scene, operating at like full speed the train collide with a stopping cart and the operator and trains can go on without a scratch like nothing happened is just lame, at that speed the trains would have totally trashed and the operator would be dead. Things like using 8 nukes to bomb an airport is as well totally hilarious, for a small city like hk, 1 nuke is more than enough to devastate everything. 8 nukes for an airport? Are you kidding me. This is the kind of production by people whos lack of common sense and lazy doing enough research. The overall cg is passable, but the speed of explosions and collisions are too quick, effects are unnatural. And finally hong kong police nowadays has zero sense of conscience, they are all mindless animals that prosecute selectively and beat up people whoever they dislike, even students and pregnant woman.
Lots of action, but thats about the single good thing about it. Story's too unrealistic doesn't make sense, for someone loses his career for disability and decide to destroy a city is totally laughable, no one would ever do such a thing let alone to nuke hong kong. Acting again too unnatural and overly exaggerated, dialogues are childish like book reading instead of normal conversation. These are common problems of hk movies today, too unrealistic and highy overrated. Actions are ok, but again a lot of stuffs are just too unconvincing, like shooting the bomb suit with sniper rifle, even if the bullet doesn't get through the person would likely fell taking a ton of pain, instead of taking them like bee stings and continuing his job which is ridiculous. Pushing the train with another is again another silly scene, operating at like full speed the train collide with a stopping cart and the operator and trains can go on without a scratch like nothing happened is just lame, at that speed the trains would have totally trashed and the operator would be dead. Things like using 8 nukes to bomb an airport is as well totally hilarious, for a small city like hk, 1 nuke is more than enough to devastate everything. 8 nukes for an airport? Are you kidding me. This is the kind of production by people whos lack of common sense and lazy doing enough research. The overall cg is passable, but the speed of explosions and collisions are too quick, effects are unnatural. And finally hong kong police nowadays has zero sense of conscience, they are all mindless animals that prosecute selectively and beat up people whoever they dislike, even students and pregnant woman.
Comparable to Infernal Affairs
madbird-6124321 February 2021
The story line is so enchanting, with lot of twist. Its plot is comparable to that of Infernal affairs. The bombing scene is simply terrific. It must have made with big investment. The movie ends with how Andy Lau first met with the female lead. It is a good ending with a little bit of surprise.
There are some lines that are irrational. But you simply cannot remember that clearly with the fast pace of the story development.
I would say it is another memorable movie since the Infernal Affairs. Only that if I am given the power I will give Infernal Affairs a score of more than ten.
Thanks for Andy Lau, all the cast and the production team for making another yet memorable movie for Hong Kong.
There are some lines that are irrational. But you simply cannot remember that clearly with the fast pace of the story development.
I would say it is another memorable movie since the Infernal Affairs. Only that if I am given the power I will give Infernal Affairs a score of more than ten.
Thanks for Andy Lau, all the cast and the production team for making another yet memorable movie for Hong Kong.
Mildly entertaining run-of-the-mill action movie
carlos-pires20 June 2021
This is a mildly entertaining run-of-the-mill action movie, suffering from all the problems you can find in second rate chinese movies: long running, filled with boring pointless sequences interspersed with action sequences, mushy moments, too many subplots, outrageously childish details and a main story supported by utterly unbelievable situations and actions from all the paper-thin characters.
I am sure you will find better things to occupy 2 hours than watching this.
I am sure you will find better things to occupy 2 hours than watching this.
What a rush...
paul_haakonsen19 June 2022
This time the sequel surpassed the predecessor.
Writers Herman Yau and Erica Li returns with a sequel to the 2017 action thriller "Shock Wave", and they brought in Eric Lee to add to the storyline as well. And believe you me, if you enjoyed the 2017 movie, then you most definitely will enjoy "Chai Dan Zhuan Jia 2" (aka "Shock Wave 2").
The storyline in "Chai Dan Zhuan Jia 2" is every bit as action-packed and adrenaline-filled as the storyline in the first movie and then some. Yeah, the writers went all in here, and it worked, because "Chai Dan Zhuan Jia 2" was a very enjoyable and entertaining movie, not to mention an edge-of-the-seat type of movie as well. And I enjoy how the storyline was constructed and written to keep the audience in the dark and sort of guessing at what was really happening.
It was nice to see some returning cast members from the first movie return to reprise their characters in "Chai Dan Zhuan Jia 2". And with Andy Lau at the helm in the leading role, then you are in for quite a movie. He definitely shows why he is still one of the big names in Hong Kong cinema with this movie. And he is joined by Ching Wan Lau, whom was a welcomed face in the movie.
There is an abundance of action, thrills and suspense in "Chai Dan Zhuan Jia 2", and it was delivered in a very entertaining manner by director Herman Yau.
Visually then "Chai Dan Zhuan Jia 2" is impressive. I liked the special effects, especially since it was made like the audience was right there alongside the actors and actresses in the chaos and mayhem.
If you enjoy action thrillers, then you most certainly should give "Chai Dan Zhuan Jia 2" a chance. I would recommend that you watch the 2017 movie first, just to get some background on the characters, but it is not a requirement, since "Chai Dan Zhuan Jia 2" can be viewed as a stand-alone movie.
My rating of "Chai Dan Zhuan Jia 2" lands on an eight out of ten stars.
Writers Herman Yau and Erica Li returns with a sequel to the 2017 action thriller "Shock Wave", and they brought in Eric Lee to add to the storyline as well. And believe you me, if you enjoyed the 2017 movie, then you most definitely will enjoy "Chai Dan Zhuan Jia 2" (aka "Shock Wave 2").
The storyline in "Chai Dan Zhuan Jia 2" is every bit as action-packed and adrenaline-filled as the storyline in the first movie and then some. Yeah, the writers went all in here, and it worked, because "Chai Dan Zhuan Jia 2" was a very enjoyable and entertaining movie, not to mention an edge-of-the-seat type of movie as well. And I enjoy how the storyline was constructed and written to keep the audience in the dark and sort of guessing at what was really happening.
It was nice to see some returning cast members from the first movie return to reprise their characters in "Chai Dan Zhuan Jia 2". And with Andy Lau at the helm in the leading role, then you are in for quite a movie. He definitely shows why he is still one of the big names in Hong Kong cinema with this movie. And he is joined by Ching Wan Lau, whom was a welcomed face in the movie.
There is an abundance of action, thrills and suspense in "Chai Dan Zhuan Jia 2", and it was delivered in a very entertaining manner by director Herman Yau.
Visually then "Chai Dan Zhuan Jia 2" is impressive. I liked the special effects, especially since it was made like the audience was right there alongside the actors and actresses in the chaos and mayhem.
If you enjoy action thrillers, then you most certainly should give "Chai Dan Zhuan Jia 2" a chance. I would recommend that you watch the 2017 movie first, just to get some background on the characters, but it is not a requirement, since "Chai Dan Zhuan Jia 2" can be viewed as a stand-alone movie.
My rating of "Chai Dan Zhuan Jia 2" lands on an eight out of ten stars.
Blowed up real good
BandSAboutMovies3 November 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Starring and produced by award-winning actor Andy Lau (House of Flying Daggers, Infernal Affairs, God of Gamblers), this film finds the actor playing former bomb disposal officer, Poon Shing-Fung.
Despite suffering from amnesia and the loss of his leg in an explosion five years ago, he still becomes the top suspect of a terrorist attack called Vendetta and must also evade the police and stop a terrorist group from destroying Hong Kong. That said, this movie is a new story and has nothing to do with the first movie, so you can come in fresh.
Directed and written by Herman Yau (the first Shock Wave, Ip Man: The Final Fight), this film debuted at the top of the global box office, grossing $63.9 million in its opening weekend.
Beyond Lau, one reason is the action choreography by Li Chung-Chi, the same man who is famous for The Legend of the Drunken Master, Twin Dragons and Rumble in the Bronx.
Also known as Shock Wave: Hong Kong Destruction, this movie starts with Hong Kong Airport exploding and only gets more action-packed as it moves to action scene to action scene. Lau is in his sixties but can still get you cheering for his high energy work, much less doing so much of it with just one leg (thanks to some solid CGI).
If you miss the old days of Hong Kong action, you may want to give this a try.
Despite suffering from amnesia and the loss of his leg in an explosion five years ago, he still becomes the top suspect of a terrorist attack called Vendetta and must also evade the police and stop a terrorist group from destroying Hong Kong. That said, this movie is a new story and has nothing to do with the first movie, so you can come in fresh.
Directed and written by Herman Yau (the first Shock Wave, Ip Man: The Final Fight), this film debuted at the top of the global box office, grossing $63.9 million in its opening weekend.
Beyond Lau, one reason is the action choreography by Li Chung-Chi, the same man who is famous for The Legend of the Drunken Master, Twin Dragons and Rumble in the Bronx.
Also known as Shock Wave: Hong Kong Destruction, this movie starts with Hong Kong Airport exploding and only gets more action-packed as it moves to action scene to action scene. Lau is in his sixties but can still get you cheering for his high energy work, much less doing so much of it with just one leg (thanks to some solid CGI).
If you miss the old days of Hong Kong action, you may want to give this a try.
Twisty-turny thriller
Leofwine_draca2 April 2021
Warning: Spoilers
SHOCK WAVE 2 is an unconnected sequel to the first movie, despite Andy Lau returning in a very similar role and Herman Yau back as director. This one's even better, going down a more unconventional character-focused route which plays up the mystery of Lau's sensibilities in a classic amnesia-focused storyline. It's engaging, inventive stuff, mixing in the usual terrorism bomb plot with some quite wonderful action sequences, the Bourne-style chases and a hospital set-piece in particular the tough highlights here. Lau is on fine form and keeps you guessing throughout, and the thrills compensate for the slightly slower middle section. This is the kind of film that shows Hong Kong's still got it when comes to thrillers.
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