Monga by Doze Niu (2010) *Taiwan

The second film by Niu, this action film is typical of most triad films I've seen, except that set in a different era, in a place in danger of being swollen up by technology like funs, even the gangsters have to evolve with the times.

The cast is star-studded, with handsome faces like Ethan Ruan, Mark Chao and Rhydian Vaughan, it is no wonder why some girls would catch it, even though it's a genre that isn't particularly appealing to them.

The motif of the red sakura flowers is repeated, representing the hopes and dreams for a future away from the fighting, killings, bloodshed and power struggles inherent in the film.

Even in the opening titles, the red chinese words have an artistic edge to them that is reminiscent of chinese calligraphy words.

This sakura postcard is often brought out in crucial moments, it is a symbol of hope for Mosquito, and the only remaining connection to his father. The postcard is also important as a plot device that leads to the revelation of his father as the enemy who just commanded his son's death.

I personally found this attempt to mix a little special effects (matrix style) nonsensical and comedic.


This theme of revenge pervades the film, Mosquito is first provoked and the Temple Front hence takes revenge for him. Then, the enemy provokes Dragon's girlfriend, the Crown Prince Gang (as our main characters call themselves) attacks him. Mad Dog, his cousin, wants revenge for him. Monk's father had his hand cut off by Dragon's father hence he wants revenge.

The whole film is an endless cycle of killing in the name of brotherhood.

The brotherly relationships are emphasised through scenes of them training together, eating together like a family and making fun of one another. (Whilst sitting in their lair or outside in the river)

I was particularly amazed by Ethan Ruan's acting and was actually shocked to find out that Mark Chao won the golden horse instead. Ethan Ruan is not unfamiliar to taiwanese idol drama addicts. His acting is nuanced and portrays the state of mind of Monk very well, his conflict within himself as he yearns to kill his best friend's father, and his exceeding love for Dragon, who is very much like a brother to him.

Below is a behind the scenes look at the crying scene which garnered much applause from the audiences. One cannot help but marvel at the work an actor puts in to play his character well.

All in all, Monga did not really defy any genre conventions, the plot was rather expected, the only thing that set it apart from other films, for me was the effort put in the make the cinematography excellent.

& I must say here that, I am still in awe at the long take in the alley, skillfully shot and well blocked out.

Compare it to its source of inspiration, the long take in Korean film Old Boy (2003) by Park Chan-wook here and you realise that with technology, seamless camera movement and good cinematography is much easier and the purist way of not using any special effects is admirable in both. Monga's action is somehow, more realistic. I mean, how can he possibly fight when he's been beaten up so badly. Our suspension of disbelief can only be held for that long.

References:

http://twitchfilm.com/reviews/2010/10/hkiff-2010-monga-review.php

http://www.moviexclusive.com/review/monga/monga.html

http://asianfanatics.net/forum/topic/711502-monga-film-review-what-tangled-webs-they-weave/

http://www.screendaily.com/reviews/the-latest/monga/5011980.article

http://japancinema.net/2010/12/16/monga-review/