Watch The Laundryman

The Laundryman is a Taiwanese black comedy film that tells the story of a hitman named A-tek, played by Joseph Chang, who is trying to get out of the killing business. A-tek, who works as a laundryman, is haunted by the ghosts of his victims, and he seeks redemption by delivering their last messages to their loved ones. The film opens with A-tek receiving his latest assignment: to kill a man named Yeung, played by Taiwanese actor Chang Hsiao-chuan. A-tek carries out the assignment, but he gets more than he bargained for when he discovers that Yeung's wife, played by Malaysian actress Amber Kuo, is also a hitwoman. A-tek and Yeung's wife, known only as "The Woman", end up teaming up to protect themselves from their former employer, a crime boss named Ray, played by Lau Vanness.

The film's plot is full of twists and turns, and it keeps the viewers on the edge of their seats. The story is told in a non-linear fashion, jumping back and forth in time, which adds to the suspense of the film. The film also contains comedic elements, especially in the interactions between A-tek and The Woman, who have an awkward and unconventional partnership.

Joseph Chang gives a standout performance as A-tek. He portrays the character with a mix of vulnerability and charm, making the audience sympathize with his struggles. Sui Tang, who plays The Woman, is a relative newcomer to the screen, but she holds her own against Chang, bringing a tough and sexy energy to her character.

The Laundryman is also notable for its unique portrayal of Taiwanese culture. The film features supernatural elements, as A-tek communicates with the ghosts of his victims through a special washing machine. The ghosts are all characters from different eras of Taiwanese history, ranging from the Qing dynasty to the Japanese occupation to the present day. The film also incorporates traditional Taiwanese customs, such as the use of firecrackers to scare away ghosts and the burning of paper money as an offering to the dead.

The film's cinematography is another standout aspect. The Laundryman features stunning shots of Taiwan's urban landscape, including bustling markets and neon-lit alleys. The film's action scenes, choreographed by renowned stunt coordinator Nicky Li, are gritty and realistic, with minimal use of CGI. The film's score, composed by Rockid Lee, features a mix of traditional and modern music, further enhancing the film's unique blend of old and new.

Overall, The Laundryman is a highly entertaining and original film that is worth checking out for fans of Asian cinema. It combines elements of action, comedy, and horror, making for a unique cinematic experience. With its strong performances, inventive visuals, and clever storytelling, The Laundryman is a must-see for anyone interested in Taiwanese cinema.

The Laundryman is a 2016 action movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 51 minutes.