Is To Be No. 1 Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, To Be No. 1 is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies.
It features a runtime of 96 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
To Be No. 1 Review
Last updated: January 10, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1996, To Be No. 1 enters the Crime genre with a narrative focused on Fai Chuen is a young man who wants to rise in the triad of Hong Kong. Under the direction of Raymond Lee Wai-Man, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Julian Cheung Chi-Lam, Allen Ting Chi-Chun, Simon Yam. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, To Be No. 1 offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, To Be No. 1 resonates with current cultural themes in the Crime space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of January 2026, To Be No. 1 is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of To Be No. 1 centers on a unique premise within the Crime landscape. Fai Chuen is a young man who wants to rise in the triad of Hong Kong. He's tough; he's respected by his friends; he loves Apple, daughter of his boss in the small-time Hung Lok gang in Wanchai; and, he encourages the studies of Chun, the son of his mother's closest relative. When Chuen comes to the attention of Piu, a top triad boss, the Hung Lok gang is assigned a hit; Chuen commits the murder and then is frustrated when Apple's father takes the fall. Chuen's cockiness gets him in trouble again when he disobeys Piu to revenge a friend's death. Chuen, who's reached the police bulletin board's most wanted, is now expendable. Can he and Apple escape to the Mainland? The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1996 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of To Be No. 1 has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a To Be No. 1 sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for To Be No. 1 (1996): with an audience rating of 6.8/10, the reception has been generally positive. It is a must-watch for fans of Crime cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
To Be No. 1 has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Crime), viewers should expect mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.8/10, and global collection metrics, To Be No. 1 stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1996 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is To Be No. 1 movie hit or flop?
To Be No. 1 has received mixed reviews with a 6.8/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is To Be No. 1 worth watching?
To Be No. 1 is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Crime movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is To Be No. 1?
To Be No. 1 is a Crime movie that Fai Chuen is a young man who wants to rise in the triad of Hong Kong. He's tough; he's respected by his friends; he loves Apple, daughter of his boss ...
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is To Be No. 1 movie hit or flop?
To Be No. 1 has received mixed reviews with a 6.8/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is To Be No. 1 worth watching?
To Be No. 1 is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Crime movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is To Be No. 1?
To Be No. 1 is a Crime movie that Fai Chuen is a young man who wants to rise in the triad of Hong Kong. He's tough; he's respected by his friends; he loves Apple, daughter of his boss ...
Is To Be No. 1 family friendly?
To Be No. 1 may not be suitable for all family members as it contains Crime elements. Parental guidance is recommended.
Where can I watch To Be No. 1?
You can find streaming options and availability for To Be No. 1 on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
Who is the main cast of To Be No. 1?
To Be No. 1 features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.
How long is the movie To Be No. 1?
The runtime and duration of To Be No. 1 are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
Critic Reviews
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