But 2004 was to be the breakout year for Johnnie To in the West, with three of his pictures premiering at the three most prestigious international film festivals: Running on Karma (Berlin), Throw Down(Venice), and Breaking News (Cannes). In addition, four recent Johnnie To films were showcased at the 2004 Recent Films From Hong Kong series presented at the Film Society of Lincoln Center (New York): Breaking News, Running on Karma, Throw Down, and PTU. In only four short years, Johnnie To’s films had gone from playing a local ad hoc fanboy film festival financed on a shoestring to being shown at one of the most prestigious locations for film screening in New York City. Johnnie To’s star was on the rise in international film circles.
PTU, © Milkyway Image (HK) Ltd., Mei Ah Films Production Co. Ltd. |