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The Tricky Master

Name: The Tricky Master
Director: Wong Jing
Released: 1999
Duration: 93 min

Representation Score

4.3/10

Fair

1999

Director

Wong Jing

Runtime

93 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Tricky Master is a product of its era, prioritizing high-octane commercial comedy and genre clichés over sociological depth. It functions as a culturally specific piece of Hong Kong cinema that centers non-Western perspectives, though it remains limited by the period's conventional character archetypes. While the film succeeds in presenting a narrative framework rooted in local cultural archetypes and moral relativism, it lacks complexity in reflecting multiple aspects of identity. The focus remains heavily on masculine-coded conflict and traditional social hierarchies. Ultimately, the film offers a distinct cultural viewpoint that moves away from Anglo-centric norms, even if it does not actively challenge gender or sexual orientation norms.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Tricky Master have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film does not include any explicit LGBTQ+ characters or narratives. The story revolves around rivalry between law enforcement and organized crime, which is portrayed through masculine-coded dynamics.

How does The Tricky Master portray gender?

Fair

The narrative centers on a male-dominated hierarchy among officers and crime bosses. Female characters play supporting roles without much influence over the plot.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Tricky Master?

Fair

The film features a predominantly East Asian cast and setting. It presents a culturally specific narrative centered on non-Western social structures.

How does The Tricky Master represent religion and culture?

Good

The story explores subjective morality and situational ethics. It celebrates intellect and cunning over rigid institutional integrity through the character of Master Wong.

Does The Tricky Master include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no discernible evidence regarding the portrayal of physical or neurodivergent disabilities in the film.

Present on Screen

Provides a culturally specific narrative that centers non-Western perspectives.
Explores complex themes of subjective morality and situational ethics.
Moves away from Anglo-centric norms by focusing on local social structures.

Limited or Absent

Relies on male-dominated hierarchies and conventional gender dynamics.
Lacks explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities or narratives.
Shows no discernible focus on disability representation.

Official Synopsis

Undercover cop Leung Foon is having trouble taking down the illegal trading operation headed by crime boss Ferrari. So to accomplish his mission, he asks for help from the renowned Master Wong, an expert in gambling tricks.

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