A Better Tomorrow (1986)

A Better Tomorrow (1986) was the gangster film that made John Woo one of the top directors in the Hong Kong film industry during the mid to late 80's. This one also made Yun-Fat Chow into a superstar and it revived the career of former Shaw Brothers star Lung Ti and boosted the career of pop singer/actor Leslie Cheung. A tragic tale about true friendship and loyalty. Yun-Fat and Lung co-star as two gangsters who are also the best of friends. They have been through a lot together. But a simple twist of fate changes their lives for ever. Leslie Cheung stars as the younger brother of Lung Ti, a straight edge cop who learns about his brother's secret life. Waise Lee and John Woo also appear in this one as well.

A ground breaking film. Not only did it make Producer Tsui Hark and Cinema City Ltd. a lot of money, it also spawned two official sequels and countless of knock-offs. A number of triad inspired movies were produced after the success of this film. It also started a fashion trend in Hong Kong. Great stuff.

Highly recommended.

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Followed by A Better Tomorrow II and A Better Tomorrow III: Love and death in Saigon..

One of your better trilogies.