Revenge: A Love Story

Revenge: A Love Story is a 2010 Hong Kong crime-thriller movie set against a rich tapestry of complexity, darkness, and intricacy. Co-written by and starring Juno Mak, this film defies conventions whilst educating viewers on the creeping darkness that dwells within the human psyche.

Juno Mak assumes the role of Chan Wing Shun, a mentally-challenged individual who spends his nights delivering steamed buns. On the surface, Shun appears to be a prototypical harmless, simple creature of routine. However, underneath this facade roils a soul marching along the line of revenge, driven by a mix of injustice, resentment, and the ghost of a love that once was.

The objects of Shun's resentment are, remarkably, some of Hong Kong's own servants of justice, led by Tony Liu, who plays Officer Wong. Liu, a venerable legend of Hong Kong cinema, brings a menacing, terrifying authority to his role. The implied cruelty and sadistic tendencies of some of the force's men leave a lasting impression on both Shun and the audience alike.

Sora Aoi plays the role of Shun's girlfriend, who works as a schoolteacher. Despite their drastically different social standings, their shared past and the connection they formed during their childhood create a love story that is touching and inspirational in its innocence. This delicate love story comes under threat by a horrifying act of violence perpetrated by certain police officers, which flips the switch in Shun's mind from docility to vengeful fanaticism.

The film starts as a rather straight-forward revenge story, with Shun brutally murdering pregnant women. However, as the plot progresses, viewers are led down a winding, complex narrative that delves into the past, explaining the motive behind these harrowing acts. It's a gripping suspenseful drama, laden with flashbacks that slowly piece together a disconcerting past underpinning the present course of events.

What's immediately noticeable about this film is the almost poetic juxtaposition of violence and tenderness. The disturbing graphic scenes are the outward manifestations of Shun's rage, an extreme response to an even more extreme hurt. Simultaneously, there are thoughtfully crafted tender moments, building the love story that, in its purity, contradicts the violence, just like two abnormal hearts trying to beat in a normal rhythm.

Revenge: A Love Story largely remains within the bounds of a crime-thriller but also manages to depict a passionate, albeit bleak, love story, effectively bringing two diametrically opposed themes into one compelling narrative.

Another noteworthy aspect is the grittiness of the film's setting, which provides a raw and unfiltered perspective of Hong Kong, a refreshing departure from the glamorous, often superficial portrayals common in many films.

Juno Mak's performance as a mentally-challenged individual thirsting for revenge deserves special mention, with the subtlety and rawness of his expressions conveying a range of emotions - innocence, pain, rage, and desperation in a way that engages viewers' empathy.

Sora Aoi, often known for her roles in adult-films, also displays notable acting, giving depth and a sort of vulnerable, heartbreaking beauty to her character. She effectively portrays a woman who, despite her innocence and goodness, gets entangled in the brutality of unfair circumstances.

Revenge: A Love Story is a smart commentary on the violent effects of unchecked powers and the darkness that can ensue when justice fails its duty. It engages in discussions of morality, justice, and love in a way, that while may be unsettling for some, is a cerebral experience which prompts deep thoughts.

Director Wong Ching Po offers an unconventional, completely absorbing experience by embracing an edgy, non-linear narrative. He masterfully intertwines the themes of love and revenge, creating a profound exploration of humanity, its defects, and the extremes it can reach under distress.

This unlikeable tale of revenge and love is darkly captivating, painting a grim and haunting picture of the humanity's potential for both love and hate. Viewer discretion is advised, given the intense, often deeply unsettling scenes of violence and brutality, but the movie's emotional depth, shockingly beautiful love story, and meticulous exploration of such heavy themes make it a worthy watch.