Infernal Affairs
Performance & Direction: Infernal Affairs Review
Last updated: February 17, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Infernal Affairs (2002) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a SUPER HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.8/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Infernal Affairs features a noteworthy lineup led by Andy Lau . Supported by the likes of Tony Leung Chiu-wai and Anthony Wong Chau-Sang , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: The lead actors exhibit a remarkable range, navigating the emotional peaks and valleys of their respective characters with a precision that makes every motivation feel earned.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Infernal Affairs
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2002, Infernal Affairs is a Drama, Action, Thriller, Crime, Mystery film directed by Alan Mak Siu-Fai. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Andy Lau.
Story Breakdown
This character-driven narrative explores the internal and external conflicts that define the human experience. Chan Wing Yan, a young police officer, has been sent undercover as a mole in the local mafia. Lau Kin Ming, a young mafia member, infiltrates the police force. Years later, their older counterparts, Chen Wing Yan and Inspector Lau Kin Ming, respectively, race against time to expose the mole within their midst. The screenplay takes time to develop Andy Lau's journey, allowing audiences to connect emotionally with their struggles and triumphs. Each scene builds upon the last, creating a cumulative emotional impact.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: We meet the main character in their ordinary world, establishing the emotional baseline before the inciting incident disrupts their life.
- Character Arc: The protagonist, portrayed by Andy Lau, undergoes a meaningful transformation, with their journey feeling earned and emotionally resonant. Supporting characters are well-developed, each serving a purpose in the narrative.
- Climax & Resolution: The emotional climax brings character arcs to their natural conclusion, providing catharsis while staying true to the story's core themes.
Ending Explained: Infernal Affairs
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Alan Mak Siu-Fai, Infernal Affairs resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to drama resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Andy Lau, creating a memorable conclusion that audiences have responded to positively.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the drama themes in a way that feels organic to the story.
The final moments of Infernal Affairs demonstrate careful narrative planning, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Infernal Affairs Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Infernal Affairs incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a drama, action, thriller, crime, mystery film directed by Alan Mak Siu-Fai, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Andy Lau's character.
Historical Context
The film balances historical fidelity with cinematic storytelling. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
The production demonstrates respect for its source material, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Infernal Affairs successfully translates real events into compelling cinema. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Infernal Affairs?
Highly Recommended For:
- Fans of Drama cinema looking for quality storytelling
- Viewers who appreciate emotionally resonant character studies and meaningful themes
- Anyone seeking a well-crafted film that delivers on its promises
Box Office Collection: Infernal Affairs
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $6.4M |
| Worldwide Gross | $8.8M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Infernal Affairs Budget
The estimated production budget for Infernal Affairs is $6.4M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: Infernal Affairs
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Where to Watch Infernal Affairs Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
NetflixInfernal Affairs Parents Guide & Age Rating
2002 AdvisoryWondering about Infernal Affairs age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Infernal Affairs is 101 minutes (1h 41m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.8/10, and global performance metrics, Infernal Affairs is classified as a SUPER HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2002 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Infernal Affairs worth watching?
Infernal Affairs is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 7.8/10 and stands as a SUPER HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Infernal Affairs parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Infernal Affairs identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Infernal Affairs?
The total duration of Infernal Affairs is 101 minutes, which is approximately 1h 41m long.
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How Infernal Affairs Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Infernal Affairs
Solid Hong Kong action-thriller with good performances and fine direction. I do think The Departed did better with connecting the plot and character development (particularly between the undercover cop and psychiatrist). Also thought The Departed was more suspenseful. But that said, Infernal Affairs is a fine film. **3.75/5**
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
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