Breaking News (2004) (Australian Import) [Blu-ray]

Breaking News Blu-ray presents Johnnie To’s 2004 Hong Kong action thriller in an Australian import region free release. Premiering at Cannes, the film opens with a striking extended action sequence before unfolding into a sharp, media-driven cops-and-robbers story about image, control and public perception.

After a police stakeout turns into a very public shootout, the authorities scramble to regain control of the story. Inspector Rebecca Fong turns the operation into a media spectacle, but the criminals, led by Yuen, quickly prove they understand the power of cameras, phones and public messaging just as well as the police.

Stylish, tense and politically aware, Breaking News is one of Johnnie To’s key 2000s crime films, blending tactical action with a smart critique of media spin and institutional performance. This Blu-ray edition includes a new Frank Djeng commentary, extended video essay, archival Q&A and interviews, deleted scene, trailer, improved subtitles, first-pressing booklet and reversible numbered sleeve.

directed by: Johnnie To
starring: Kelly Chen, Richie Jen, Nick Cheung
2004 / 90 min / Cantonese DTS-HD MA 5.1 & LPCM 2.0 Audio / 1-Disc Region Free Blu-ray