Review: Cảnh Báo Lừa Đảo
As a fan of Vietnamese cinema, I was excited to watch Cảnh Báo Lừa Đảo, a 2022 action thriller film that has been making waves in the local film industry. Directed by Dustin Nguyen, the movie tells the story of a young police officer, Thang (played by Dustin Nguyen himself), who becomes embroiled in a web of deception and corruption after he is assigned to investigate a series of murders that are seemingly connected to a mysterious figure known only as “The Viper”.
From the opening scenes, it’s clear that Cảnh Báo Lừa Đảo is going for a gritty, intense tone. The film’s cinematography is stark and unforgiving, capturing the dark, rain-soaked streets of Hanoi in a way that’s both beautiful and unsettling. The score is equally impressive, with a pulsing electronic soundtrack that heightens the sense of tension and urgency as the plot unfolds.
Thang is a complex, brooding protagonist, and Dustin Nguyen brings a depth and nuance to the character that’s impressive to watch. He’s a man who’s haunted by his past and struggling to come to terms with the moral implications of his work as a police officer. As the body count rises and the stakes grow higher, Thang’s determination to uncover the truth becomes more of a personal crusade, driving him to confront the darkest corners of his own psyche.
The plot of Cảnh Báo Lừa Đảo is twists and turns, full of surprises and double-crosses that keep you on the edge of your seat. The Viper is a masterful villain, with a chilling calm that’s offset by a terrifying unpredictability. The supporting cast is equally strong, with standout performances from the likes of Hariu, Van Sang, and Nguyen Ai Ba.
If I have any criticisms, it’s that the pacing can be a bit rushed at times. There’s a lot to pack into a relatively short 95-minute runtime, and some scenes feel a little cramped or unfinished. Additionally, the film’s themes of corruption and deception can feel a little heavy-handed at times, with some of the characters’ motivations feeling a tad convenient or contrived.
That being said, these are minor quibbles in what is otherwise a thoroughly entertaining and engaging film. Cảnh Báo Lừa Đảo is a gripping, thought-provoking thriller that will appeal to fans of the genre. With strong performances, impressive direction,
