The Corruptor (1999)

Nick Chan heads the NYPD's Asian Gangs Unit which spends most of its time investigating Chinatown and picking up bodies from dumpsters. Nick has plenty of contacts in the underworld and he uses them to their full potential whilst dealing with a recent spate of bombings which are part of a war between the Triads and the newly arrived Fukinese.

When a white rookie cop Danny Wallace is assigned to his team he is far from happy and expresses his reservations in a manner only a police officer would do in a film. Forced to accept the new recruit they are soon on the streets cracking down on the growing turf war and witness the many violent consequences. However, Danny is soon tempted with the corruption which is rife within the force as they end up being the unwitting pawns in the race to control Chinatown

Normally EIV discs are to be avoided at all costs as, until recently, they have been devoid of any extras, and sometimes even a 5.1 soundtrack. However, what we have here completely dispels this image with an outstanding picture and soundtrack.

The picture is sharp and detailed with vibrant colours throughout. There's an above average bit-rate resulting in no visible artifacting or outlining. The surround channels are given a serious workout with bullets ricocheting around the room along with plentiful explosions, screeching breaks and LFE's. Even the musical score manages to find its way to the rears adding extra ambience. However, at times the dialogue was quite inaudible and I had to keep turning the volume up. You might not think this a problem, but believe me, it is once a gun battle breaks out in your room at maximum volume!

Interesting enough, Kin Chan who plays crime lord Uncle Benny, also appeared with the same name, and role, in Lethal Weapon 4.