The Brink is a gonzo crime thriller that takes the audience into a violent realm of golden smuggling, law enforcement and triad wars. The plot of the story is the maniacal police inspector Tung, who goes in search of a smuggler Shing and ends up in an uncomfortable confrontation with betrayal, loyalty and revenge. The story in the movie is compelling, and the tone of the same is between anarchy and poignancy. The tale of moral ambiguity and the personal prices of living a life that is full of danger are implied in the story as Tung treads the treacherous waters of crime and corruption.
The acting is not weak, as Zhang Jin plays the role of Tung in a gritty manner and Shawn Yue plays the role of Shing in a desperate manner. The other characters are supporting, and all they contribute are menace and complication, particularly the triad boss of Yasuaki Kurata, Blackie. The film also excels visually with its movement rich cinematography and its engulfing production design especially in the shots set on the casino cruise ship which is alternating between glamour and claustrophobic tension. The score amplifies the pulse-pounding effect, and the clever use of special effects makes every single chase and confrontation experience visceral and real.
The strongest thing was the emotion behind the action, the tragic connections, betrayals and sacrifices that bring out the plight of the characters. The Brink made me anxious and fascinated by the fine border between the order and the chaos. The raw energy and depth of emotion made the film a memorable experience, although some plot details in it were rushed. After all, it is an effective examination of the weaknesses of the human soul and ethical grayness that leaves a lasting impact even after the credits end.
