The story of Sleeping Dogs carries a sense of tragic inevitability, where fate feels impossible to resist. The more one tries to stay away from politics, the deeper they are dragged into the heart of the struggle. The more they strive to do the right thing, the worse their situation becomes. The tragedy of Smith lies in how an ordinary man watches helplessly as his peaceful life is shattered and one by one, the people he cares about fall victim to political terror.
This movie brilliantly captures the fundamental characteristic of political terror: no one is spared.
Filmed in New Zealand, the movie showcases stunning landscapes paired with perfectly complementary music. The stark contrast between the film's aesthetic tone and its theme of political terror makes the viewing experience all the more poignant. It is a masterpiece worthy of thoughtful appreciation.
