So Close

So Close is an action-packed thriller released in 2002 from Hong Kong. The film boasts a star-studded cast featuring Shu Qi, Wei Zhao, and Karen Mok. Combining the elements of high-speed action, martial arts, drama, and a touch of comedy, So Close brings out the epitome of Asian cinema at its finest.

The movie revolves around two sisters, Lynn and Sue, played by Shu Qi and Wei Zhao, respectively. Despite leading a seemingly ordinary life on the exterior, the sisters live a double life as high-skilled professional assassins. With Lynn being the tactical brains and Sue, the technical genius, they form a lethal duo who have not met their match—yet. The story opens with the duo orchestrating a perfect assassination, demonstrating their incredible fighting prowess, intelligence, and their borderline futuristic technology.

An important side-plot of the movie is Lynn's complicated past, showing a softer side to her assassination-based lifestyle. It elegantly reveals a backstory that provides a compelling depth to her character, making her motivations and actions more understandable and adding texture to the overall narrative of the movie.

Further complicating their lives is the entry of Hong, a dedicated detective hired to solve the mysterious assassination cases that have baffled the police department. Portrayed by Karen Mok, Hong proves to be a formidable opponent and pulls all the stops in her pursuit of justice. Thus, the two worlds collide, setting the stage for a tense narrative packed with suspense.

So Close takes high-paced action to a new level, incorporating elements of technology as an integral part of its premise. The digital-age aspect of the movie, with its futuristic setup, offers more than a fair share of thrills. With a clear inspiration from Western action films of the late 90s and early 2000s, the movie manages to present a refreshing and modern take on the classic genre.

Even with a high-octane action narrative, the film's heart lies in the bond between the sisters. It is their strong familial bond that keeps the audience invested in their characters, amidst all the explosive action sequences, conspiracies, and thrilling chase scenes. They are the two leads around whom the whole narrative revolves, going from thrilling action sequences to tender, personal moments.

Their opposing personalities create a beautiful dynamic. Lynn is emotionally sensitive and empathetic despite being the elder sister. In contrast, Sue is hyperactive, impulsive, and fiercely protective of her sister. Together, they bring out the best in each other, having a synergy as assassins and as sisters.

Karen Mok's character, Hong, brings another layer to this gripping narrative. Her single-minded pursuit to catch the assassins adds an angle of suspense and anticipation, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. Mok very convincingly portrays a relentless law enforcer, adding a level of competition and danger to the siblings' high-risk profession.

So Close effectively mixes these diverse elements into a riveting plot, with breathtaking action sequences and a central plotline that keeps viewers glued to their seats. The film employs the classic martial-arts choreography that Hong Kong cinema is renowned for, but with a digital era twist. The cinematography beautifully complements the story, with visually stunning scenes that add to the narrative's thrill, suspense, and often, emotional intensity.

The soundtrack, featuring the hit song "Close To You," performed by The Carpenters, adds a meaningful and impactful layer to the movie, enhancing the emotional moments while also serving as a significant element in building up the narrative tension.

Directed by Corey Yuen, a master of action cinema, So Close features female protagonists who are strong, intelligent, and fierce, making it a progressive Asian film for its time. With its engaging plot, powerful performances, state-of-the-art action sequences, and an emotional core, the movie is a must-watch for those who enjoy action cinema with depth.

In conclusion, So Close is an action-packed film that beautifully balances emotional narrative with high-stakes action sequences. The well-drawn characters and the gripping storyline make it a thoroughly entertaining watch, not just for action enthusiasts but for all movie lovers.