Director John Woo (“Hard Target”, “Face/Off”) is the man behind “Hard Boiled”, one of the most exhilarating action movies of all-time. The truly spectacular action sequences from this Hong Kong classic rival those of its Hollywood rivals such as “Lethal Weapon”, “Die Hard” and “Predator”.

Inspector ‘Tequila’ Yuen (Chow Yun-Fat “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon”) is on the trail of a group of Triad gangsters. Things become complicated when he finds out that an undercover cop (Tony Leung “Infernal Affairs”) has infiltrated the crew. The two will have to join forces in order to bring down the criminals once and for all. It all culminates in a thrilling finale with more gunfire and explosions than you could have hoped for.

Chow Yun-Fat is great as Tequila. Tony Leung is also entertaining as Alan. Teresa Mo (“2 Young”) does a fine job as Superintendent Pang. The villains are perfect for this type of movie. The action style known as ‘gun fu’ is absolutely amazing as you will see the actors dive around blasting away at their opponents and Woo has perfected this style via his collaborations with Chow Yun-Fat. Also, look out for John Woo’s brief cameo. Sadly, the director does not join in any of the firefight mayhem.

“Hard Boiled” has some of the best action scenes ever put to film. The opening shootout in the teahouse is terrific but then the movie outdoes it with the even more impressive scene in a warehouse and then the movie outdoes itself again with the last act taking place inside a hospital. The plot is nothing revolutionary but it only needs to serve the action and it definitely does. If you have seen many of the great Hollywood action flicks then look to the East and check out “Hard Boiled” because I’m sure you will not be disappointed.