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"Protégé" is a 2007 Hong Kong crime drama film that examines the world of international drug trafficking and the brutal violence that is often a part of that world. The story focuses on Nick (Daniel Wu), an undercover agent who has spent years infiltrating the triad drug trade in Hong Kong. Under the mentorship of crime boss Quin (Andy Lau), Nick has become deeply embedded in the system, gaining the trust of drug lords like Lung (Louis Koo) while also risking his life on a daily basis.

As Nick's work begins to pay off and he gets closer to bringing the drug trade down, he finds himself struggling with the moral implications of his work. At the same time, he begins to develop feelings for Quin's assistant, Jane (Zhang Jingchu), a woman who seems to be caught between competing loyalties.

As the story unfolds, the tension between Nick and the criminals he is investigating continues to ratchet up, leading to a series of confrontations that are both violent and emotionally fraught.

Throughout the film, Director Derek Yee skillfully captures the gritty, dark world of drug trafficking, portraying the immense human cost of the trade through a range of vivid and intensely human characters. Each of the main actors gives a strong performance, imbuing their characters with a sense of depth and nuance that adds to the film's compelling realism.

One of the most striking elements of "Protégé" is its portrayal of the complex relationships that exist within the world of drug trafficking. As Nick attempts to take down the triad, he must navigate a landscape of shifting alliances, where even those he considers friends can turn on him in an instant.

At the same time, the film also explores the toll that the drug trade takes on individuals and communities. From the addicts whose lives are destroyed by drugs, to the street vendors who are caught in the middle of the violence, "Protégé" presents a vivid and often heartbreaking portrait of the ways in which drug trafficking impacts those involved and those around them.

In terms of style, "Protégé" is a highly effective piece of filmmaking, with Yee employing a range of inventive techniques to build tension and create a sense of unease. From his use of sound and lighting to his careful framing and camera work, he creates a world that feels both immersive and deeply unsettling.

Overall, "Protégé" is a powerful and intense crime drama that deserves to be seen. With its strong performances, complex characters, and unflinching portrayal of the human cost of drug trafficking, it is a film that will stick with viewers long after its final frames have played out.