Three (2016 film)

Three2016

Three (2016) is a Hong Kong-Chinese action crime film directed by Johnnie To, a filmmaker known for his work in the action genre. The film stars Zhao Wei, Louis Koo, and Wallace Chung in the lead roles. It revolves around a tense standoff in a hospital between a criminal awaiting his chance to escape, the police force intent on preventing this, and the medical staff caught in the middle.

Plot

The story of Three unfolds primarily in a hospital where a criminal named Shun (played by Wallace Chung) is admitted after being captured by the police. Shun has a bullet lodged in his head that he refuses to have removed, hoping to bide time for his accomplices to rescue him. The police, led by Inspector Ken (played by Louis Koo), are on high alert, determined to prevent any escape attempt. Dr. Tong (played by Zhao Wei), the neurosurgeon assigned to Shun, finds herself trapped in the moral and ethical dilemma of saving a life that could potentially lead to more deaths if the criminal escapes. The film escalates into a high-stakes game of cat and mouse within the confines of the hospital, leading to a climactic showdown that tests the limits of each character's morality and resolve.

Cast

• Zhao Wei as Dr. Tong Qian
• Louis Koo as Inspector Ken
• Wallace Chung as Shun
• Additional supporting roles are filled by a cast that brings depth and tension to the narrative, contributing to the film's tight pacing and psychological depth.

Production

Directed by Johnnie To, Three is noted for its unique blend of genres, combining elements of action, crime, and drama. The film showcases To's signature style of tight, efficient storytelling and innovative action sequences. The production involved intricate set designs, particularly the hospital where the majority of the film takes place, to facilitate the complex action scenes that are a hallmark of To's films.

Reception

Upon its release, Three received mixed to positive reviews from critics. Praise was directed at the film's direction, action sequences, and performances, particularly those of the lead actors. However, some critics pointed out the film's pacing and script as areas that could have been improved. Despite this, Three was recognized for its contribution to the genre and Johnnie To's filmography, further cementing his status as a master of the action genre.

Themes

The film explores themes of morality, duty, and the thin line between good and evil. Through its characters, Three delves into the complexities of making life-and-death decisions under pressure, the sacrifices made by law enforcement and medical professionals, and the consequences of those decisions. The hospital setting adds a layer of urgency and claustrophobia to the narrative, amplifying the moral dilemmas faced by the characters.

See Also

• Johnnie To
• Hong Kong cinema
• Chinese cinema
• Crime film
• Action film