Is On the Society File of Shanghai Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1981)

📖 The Core Premise

On the Society File of Shanghai stands as a 1981 entry that attempts to leave its mark on the Drama, Crime landscape. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "In Shanghai, Hai-nan, son of a Chinese official, is found stabbed on the street. But when the culprit, Li-fang, is apprehended, she refuses to reveal her motives. Meanwhile, a police officer grows suspicious of the officials’ rush to close the case. As he searches for leads in the case files, a shocking truth about Li-fang is revealed."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. Lu Hsiao-Fen does well with the material given, though the script occasionally limits their range. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Drama. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is On the Society File of Shanghai worth your time? If you appreciate Drama, Crime films that take risks, this is likely a must-watch. However, if you are looking for a flawless masterpiece, you might find some plot points predictable.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, On the Society File of Shanghai is a mixed bag with some redeeming qualities. With a runtime of 90 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Watch on OTT.