Laughing Gor: Turning Point (DVD)

If you want to remain cool in your friends' eyes, be sure to pick up a copy of Laughing Gor: Turning Point, one of the most eagerly anticipated local films of the year.

Initially on the supporting cast of the TVB drama Emergency Unit, Michael Tse Tin-wah's portrayal of gangster Laughing Gor made the character hugely popular, prompting the formation of a number of online fan groups.

Tse reprises his role in Turning Point, a movie that acts as a prequel to the television show. It also stars award-winning local actors Anthony Wong Chau-sang, Francis Ng Chun-yu and Eric Tsang Chi-wai as the heads of the triad.

The plot and ending are far from surprising, especially if you're familiar with the TV series. But what makes this film worth watching is Wong's performance. Not only is his acting superb, he totally changes the way he looks as the film progresses.

Although it is the popularity of Laughing Gor that inspired Turning Point, and which ensured brisk ticket sales at the cinema, it's the performances of the three big names that people will talk about for a long time to come.