Johnnie To
DirectingAbout Johnnie To
Johnnie To Kei-Fung (Chinese: 杜琪峯, born 22 April 1955) is a Hong Kong film director and producer. Popular in his native Hong Kong, To has also found acclaim overseas. Intensely prolific, To has made films in a variety of genres, though in the West he is best known for his action and crime movies, which have earned him critical respect and a cult following. His films, often made in collaboration with the same group of actors, screenwriters and cinematographers, frequently explore themes of friendship, fate and the changing face of Hong Kong society. Sometimes described as "multifaceted and chameleonic" due to his ability to switch tones and genres between movies, To is nonetheless seen as having a consistent style, which involves mixing subdued realism and social observation with highly stylized visual and acting elements. To heads the Hong Kong-based production company Milkyway Image with his frequent co-director Wai Ka-Fai.
Johnnie To Movies & Career Overview
The filmography of Johnnie To reflects a career marked by diverse experimentation. Across 15 major appearances, the actor has built a reputation through performances in multiple genres and storytelling styles.
Dominant Genre
A large portion of Johnnie To's work falls within the Documentary genre, where audiences tend to respond most strongly to their on-screen presence.
Success Ratio
Approximately 33% of Johnnie To's films maintain ratings above 6.5, indicating a consistent level of audience approval.
One of the most highly rated entries in their career remains Hong Kong Superstars, which stands out as a key performance.
Best Johnnie To Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Johnnie To's career based on audience ratings.
Full Filmography
Every movie Johnnie To has appeared in, with audience ratings and verdicts.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | In the Mood for Melville | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 2016 | Three | Wong Superintendent (voice) | Average | Similar → |
| 2016 | The Weaving of a Dream: Johnnie To's Vision and Craft | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 2013 | Boundless | Self | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 2010 | Johnnie Got His Gun! | Himself | Flop | Similar → |
| 2010 | Code Name: Melville | Self | Hit | Similar → |
| 2004 | Katanas, yakuzas y cintas de video | (archive footage) | Flop | Similar → |
| 2001 | Grit & Polish: Heroines from Hong Kong | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 2001 | Hong Kong Superstars | Self | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1998 | Expect the Unexpected | - | Average | Similar → |
| 1991 | Sisters of the World Unite | - | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1991 | The Banquet | - | Average | Similar → |
| 1991 | The Royal Scoundrel | Taxi Driver | Flop | Similar → |
| 1990 | The Iron Butterfly II | - | Hit | Similar → |
| 1988 | It's No Heaven | Club Patron | Flop | Similar → |
Johnnie To - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Johnnie To?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Johnnie To is "Hong Kong Superstars" with a rating of 10.0/10.
How many movies has Johnnie To acted in?
Johnnie To has been featured in at least 15 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Johnnie To?
Other notable films include "Sisters of the World Unite", "Boundless", and "The Iron Butterfly II".