Bullet in the Head

+ intro by film critic Katie Smith-Wong

Dip huet gai tau

This Vietnam war melodrama is an underrated and emotionally devastating masterpiece in John Woo’s filmography.

  • Director

    John Woo

  • With

    Tony Leung Chiu-wai, Jacky Cheung, Waise Lee

  • Hong Kong 1990. 131min

  • Digital 4K (restoration)

  • Certificate

    18

  • Cantonese with English subtitles

In 1960s Hong Kong, three childhood friends caught up in spiralling gang violence decide to go on the run. They flee to Vietnam, intending to make money as smugglers amid the chaos of war, but the trip shatters both their dreams and lives in myriad ways. Reminiscent of The Deer Hunter, Woo’s film explores his interest in brotherhood and morality, made even more poignant by the tragedy of the conflict. Anchored by the three leads’ impressive performances, Bullet in the Head is an underrated gem in Woo’s filmography.

Contains scenes of graphic violence, torture and drug use.

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