"Weekend in Taipei": A Luc Besson-Approved Action Packed Trip to Taiwan
Fans of high-octane action with a touch of romance will want to mark their calendars for "Weekend in Taipei," a new film opening November 8th.
This thrilling tale stars Luke Evans ("The Hobbit", "The Fast Saga") as John Lawlor, a DEA agent who returns to Taipei, the scene of a past entanglement with his former informant, the alluring Josephine "Joey" Kwang (Gwei Lun-mei).
The film, co-written by Luc Besson ("The Transporter," "Taken"), channels the nostalgic energy of 90s action flicks starring Jean Claude Van Damme and Steven Seagal. "Weekend in Taipei" promises a blend of Asian action influences, fast-paced chase sequences, and creative fight choreography reminiscent of John Woo’s classics.
A Family Affair
The action kicks off with a compelling premise: John’s mission to collect evidence against a powerful Korean cartel leader (Sung Kang) takes a dramatic turn when he reunites with Joey, now separated from her husband but protecting her son Raymond (Wyatt Yang).
The film’s multicultural cast adds another layer of richness, although the use of English dialogue, even with a Taiwanese cast, might feel slightly jarring to some viewers.
Audiences can expect plenty of heart-pounding action sequences, visually stunning backdrops of Taiwan, and a delightful dose of humor. The film offers a refreshing take on the familiar action genre while paying homage to its predecessors.
Where "Weekend in Taipei" Shines and Where it Falls Short
While it embraces a familiar formula, "Weekend in Taipei" shines thanks to its charismatic lead performances. Luke Evans’ action chops are undeniable, proving he’s built for leading a successful action franchise. Sung Kang brings a convincing edge as the conflicted antagonist, and Gwei Lun-mei’s performance brings a compelling warmth and complexity to her character.
However, the film’s reliance on a tried-and-true formula might leave some viewers wanting something more original.
Final Verdict:
"Weekend in Taipei" is a solid action flick that delivers exactly what it promises: thrilling action, a touch of romance, and a dash of humor. It’s a great choice for fans of escapist entertainment and Launchpad for a potential franchise.
Watch the trailer and be prepared for an action-packed weekend in Taipei!
