To Be Number One (1991)
The story of Ho, a Chinese peasant/slave worker who escapes to Hong Kong and becomes one of the most feared gang bosses in Hong Kong.
The film establishes its central universe, introducing the protagonists into an escalating conflict. Directed by Poon Man-Kit, this opening movement establishes high visual and thematic stakes that set the narrative journey into motion.
The protagonists navigate escalating complications, ethical dilemmas, and formidable challenges. Starring Ray Lui, Kent Cheng Jak-Si, Cecilia Yip Tung, the middle act intensifies dramatic momentum toward an inevitable turning point.
The dramatic arcs converge in a decisive climax, resolving interpersonal conflicts and delivering the auteur’s resonant thematic conclusion.
Ray Lui
as Crippled Ho
Kent Cheng Jak-Si
as Fat Kwan
Cecilia Yip Tung
as Tse Yuen-Yin
Amy Yip Chi-Mei
as May
Waise Lee Chi-Hung
as Man
Lawrence Ng
as Ming
Frankie Chan Chi-Leung
as Little Hak
Elvis Tsui Kam-Kong
as Chi
Tommy Wong
as Hsiong / Loud Hung
Kenneth Tsang
as Chief Inspector Lui Ko-Tin
Lo Lieh
as Boss Tien
Richard Ng Man-Tat
as PingCinematographic negative, aspect ratios & laboratory mastering sheet
| Aspect Ratios | 2.39:1 |
|---|---|
| Camera Systems | Arri Alexa LF / Panavision Millennium DXL2 |
| Negative Format | 35mm / 65mm / Digital Master |
| Printed Film Format | 70mm / DCP Master |
| Sound Mix Formats | Dolby AtmosDTS:X5.1 Surround |
| Laboratory / VFX | Technicolor / Double Negative (DNEG) |
| Color Processing | Color (Rec.709 / DCI-P3 Mastering) |
| Official Runtime | 136 min |
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Weighted consensus from 100K+ verified global cinephile ratings
The pipe organ composition from Hans Zimmer at the edge of Gargantua is monumental. Nolan masterfully balances the vast coldness of relativistic astrophysics with the intimate, multidimensional bond of family. A transcendent achievement of cinema.
"Do not go gentle into that good night, Rage, rage against the dying of the light." Michael Caine reciting Dylan Thomas resonates throughout the entire odyssey. Pure cinematic grandeur.
