Efficiently sleek actioner… Surprising as often as it is conventional
Date/Time: Oct 9 2017, 1:30 pm to 3:10 pm
Vancouver, Cineplex Odeon International Village CinemasCost: $15.00
Find tickets: here
In 2017, VIFF continues to expand the frame to create multi-experiential streams that include some of the best cinema from around the world fused with related talks and events in a unique Film+ model. VIFF audiences and creators have a chance to discover, discuss and connect more at one of North America's most accessible festivals, in one of the most beautiful cities on the planet.
With more than 300 films from 73 countries, VIFF 2016 audiences were treated to narratives and documentaries that entertained, informed, inspired and left viewers in awe of the filmmaking talent that exists here in Canada and from creators around the world. Look here for a list of
2016 award-winners. We can't wait to see what the 2017 Festival line-up!
Paradox
Gateway | Dragons & Tigers
Ace director Wilson Yip, dashing leading man Louis Koo and one of cinema’s greatest action choreographers Sammo Hung team up for this gritty crime thriller, part of the successful SPL action franchise. Koo plays a detective who travels to Thailand in search of his missing daughter; there he finds corruption, sleaze and plenty of danger. Yip and screenwriter Jill Leung weave a story of intrigue with colourful characters, an exotic setting and, of course, plenty of violence. The action is masterfully executed and quite brutal, too, with meat hooks the weapon of choice in the climactic showdown. Thai martial artist Tony Jaa features in a small but memorable role, displaying his skills in a chase-and-fight scene that ranks with the best. As far as drama goes, let’s just say the film has a lot of heart.
Asian action films beat their Hollywood competitors on many scores: they’re smarter, the violence is more creative and, best of all, their makers know how to tell a good story. Paradox succeeds as a mystery, a stomp-fest and, yes, a poetic reflection on grief, power and sacrifice. Come for the action, stay for the humanity.
"[A]n efficiently sleek actioner… Surprising as often as it is conventional."—Elizabeth Kerr, Hollywood Reporter
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The Vancouver International Film Festival 2017 Events