Sao hei · Jue bu fang qi

This film, which initially appears to be a typical drama centered on high-level corruption, is presented in a unique manner, particularly through the casting of comedian Xiao Yang (Li Nanbei) in the lead role of a complex police officer. His performance was commendable. While I appreciated the acting, the film nearly lost my interest at the outset due to its narrative surrounding COVID brainwashing. It seems that Guo Shubo, a television director from Changchun better known by his pen name Wubai ("Five Hundred"), may have been compelled to adhere to official party directives that suggest a new "virus scam" targeting China. Despite this controversial element, the film stands out as a strong piece; however, its box office earnings of 192 million yuan did not leave a significant mark upon its release in Mainland China, possibly because audiences perceived it as merely another conventional anti-corruption commentary. The film is certainly worth viewing for its impressive cinematography and performances.