Extreme speed police: the war on drugs is a compelling documentary that depicts the fierce campaign against drug trafficking in China on the basis of the actual 516 Sichuan drug case. Starting with a high-adrenaline highway chase, the movie instantly gives the audience the feel of danger and hurry that anti-narcotics officers have to contend with. It tells the tale of Cao Renfan, a hardworking squadron leader, who takes his crew on thrilling rescues and death-endangered investigations to destroy a big drug cartel. It is a well-rounded story with the right mix of the action and the investigative scenes so that the rhythm of the story gives its audience an urge to keep watching it till the end.
The acting of the movie is quite good and the characters are represented in a realistic manner. Cao Renfan becomes a stoic but a kind of hero, who is a symbol of strength and virtuousness. The cast of supporting characters gives the narrative depth and the high-stakes chases of the film are personal and emotionally vivid. The movie is stunning to look at the chaos of gun battles and the undercover missions are clearly captured by the dynamically shot camera, and the grand mountain views and rough urban spaces add to the realism. The score raises the suspense level and production design believably creates the secret world of drug dealers to the viewers to stay in this shadowy environment.
The theme of perseverance and moral complexity resonated with me more with the film. It points out the personal cost that the police officers have to pay and the personal cost of their never-ending search of justice. Though the movie is sometimes bordering on action cliche, it does not take away its emotional impact. In general, Extreme Speed Police: The War on Drugs is a powerful and emotionally charged movie in honor of those who engage in a dangerous and complicated fight, which leaves the viewers both encouraged and thoughtful.
