The Delightful Romantic Comedy by Johnnie To
The renowned Hong Kong filmmaker, Johnnie To, is acclaimed for his gripping gangster films filled with intense drama, conflicted characters, and operatic gun battles. However, To’s versatility as a filmmaker shines through in the delightful romantic comedy Don’t Go Breaking My Heart, co-directed with frequent collaborator Wai Ka-fai. This film stands out as one of the best love triangle movies, making it a perfect choice for a cozy holiday season watch with someone special.
As the clock ticks down to its removal from Netflix on Dec. 1, Don’t Go Breaking My Heart tells the story of Chi-yan (Gao Yuanyuan), a financial analyst grappling with her feelings for two captivating suitors: a CEO (Louis Koo) who let her down, and an architect (Daniel Wu) in need of support after a rough patch.
Both men present appealing qualities as potential partners, with Koo’s CEO offering financial stability but emotional distance, and Wu’s architect exuding romantic yearning while rebuilding his life. The film portrays the complexity of choice in relationships, cleverly utilizing a financial crisis backdrop to depict the modern-day dating landscape as a marketplace for comparison.
The endearing flirtation between the characters, communicated through sticky notes on office windows, adds a charming layer to the narrative. Additionally, the film’s humor shines through sight gags, witty dialogue, and physical comedy reminiscent of classic romantic comedies like His Girl Friday and Playtime.
With its blend of romance, humor, and engaging performances, Don’t Go Breaking My Heart exemplifies Johnnie To’s prowess across genres, showcasing his directorial finesse at its peak.
Don’t Go Breaking My Heart is currently available for streaming on Netflix until Nov. 30.