The fifth annual Subway Cinema New York Asian Film Festival kicked off with some doozies – including the first Malaysian film ever to screen at the festival, one of Takashi Miike’s latest works, and the outstanding Indian crime film, Ab Tak Chhappan. Here’s a rundown of some of the films that have played so far (all of which, except for Art of the Devil 2, will be playing again during the festival. Check the schedule here.)

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Gangster
Directed by: Bade Haji Azmi
Malaysia (2005)

Azmi’s ultra-modern Kuala Lumpur is filled with drug dealers, illegal street racers, and transvestite prostitutes. In keeping with this mix, Gangster is equal parts social drama, racing film, and gangster morality tale. Azmi also plays with form – the film has an elliptical structure and converging storylines, not to mention an amazing performance by Malaysia’s most popular actor Rosyam Nor in three very different roles (it really is impressive - I knew he was playing three people and still could not tell which three). Gangster is more than your average mindless exercise in car chases and shoot-outs. Recommended.

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A Bittersweet Life
Directed by: Kim Jee-woon
South Korea (2005)

Gorgeously shot, but ultimately pointless, this gangster revenge tale positively wallows in style. Unfortunately, the theme – coldblooded hitman shows emotion and finds himself at odds with his former gang – has been done to death. Fortunately, style in sufficient quantity and quality can go a long way, and this film has style in spades. It also has Lee Byung-hon, who despite suffering from “pretty-boy hitman” syndrome, turns in an intense, dedicated performance that keeps you caring about his character long after you know you shouldn’t bother. I think that director Kim Jee-woon has yet to surpass his earlier The Foul King, which had style, humor and heart, but A Bittersweet Life is very entertaining, and that’s enough. Recommended.

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