Writer: Sharon Chu

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Cast: NA
Plot: NA
Effects: NA
Cinematography: NA

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We all know that elections are about power-hungry people setting their eyes on leadership. Armed with the desire to dominate, will the candidates ever let the chance of fair game conquer or let it slip away? In canto movie "Election", ruthless members of a triad society submit to violence in order to recover the missing symbol of the triad's leadership, i.e. a traditional baton.

Judging by its poor and miserable script, "Election" clearly isn't going to be a very hot film among gangster movie lovers. Story-wise, "Election" stinks as the abrupt and illogical ending leaves one with the feeling of remorse for staying loyal to the film's development.

Things certainly turned out ugly in the movie, which goes to show that violence never leaves a good ending for its perpetrators. Behind all those black and polished Mercedes cars, gleaming Rolexes and beautiful women, triad members will be triad members. Bad guys will reap the seeds they've sown.

Star-power is definitely a major attraction of this movie. Celebrated Hong Kong movie stars, Simon Yam, Tony Leung Ka-Fai and Louis Koo take part in this 110-minute tribulation of the triad world, and each of them is remarkable in their own roles. Yam is ever the sophisticated actor as he's as suave as ever in this movie. He delivers an astounding portrayal of the methodical and calm Lok, the lead character.

Meanwhile, Tony Leung plays the exuberant, loud and childish Big D. Thanks to the actor's natural comedic talents, Big D wins votes for providing the laughs. In this movie, Leung's character is number two and Simon Yam's is number one, but he is certainly no less capable where acting is concerned. Leung proves again to be a fan favourite, ever his brash, charming and humourous self.

One gets the feeling that all Louis Koo does best is playing the typical brooding and cold gangster member. In almost all his movies, especially the darker and more serious ones, Koo is indifferent and doesn't display too much warmth and friendliness. In the poorly made "Election", Koo is just as blunt as ever. He plays the role of Jimmy, a promising youngster, albeit there's more to him than meets the eye.

Supporting actor Nick Cheung delivers an awesome performance as a 'psycho' member of the triad circle. In "Election", the fearless Cheung takes his dark role to a wicked level.

In the end, credit should be given to the movie's stellar cast but marks should be deducted for the film's lame script.

Cinema Online, 23 September 2008