Lust and Found

Lust and Found is a 2015 Hong Kong crime-comedy film directed by Lawrence Gray, starring Jai Day, Arran Hawkins, and Philippe Joly. The movie tells the story of three misfits who, in their pursuit of easy money, find themselves embroiled in a dangerous kidnapping scheme in Macau.

The protagonist of the film is Macau-based taxi driver, Shing (Jai Day), who, in a bid to make some quick cash, agrees to help pick up a package for his friend, who is involved in a smuggling racket. However, things take a turn for the worse when Shing discovers that the package he was asked to pick up is, in fact, a human being – a kidnapped woman named Jolie (Cherry Ngan).

As Shing grapples with the moral dilemma of what to do with Jolie, he enlists the help of two unlikely allies – an American expat named Mike (Arran Hawkins), who he meets in a bar, and a British-Chinese investigator named Jackie (Philippe Joly). Together, the three set out to unravel the mystery behind Jolie's kidnapping and to rescue her before it's too late.

The movie takes us on a wild ride through Macau's underworld, as the trio navigates their way through a maze of dangerous criminals, crooked cops, and shady businessmen. Along the way, they encounter an array of colorful characters, including a sassy nightclub singer, a crazed gangster, and a flamboyant drag queen, who add a touch of humor to the otherwise tense and dark narrative.

One of the standout elements of Lust and Found is its stunning visuals, which capture the neon-lit streets and bustling nightlife of Macau in all its glory. The film's director, Lawrence Gray, makes full use of the city's vibrant colors and distinctive architecture to create a vivid and immersive cinematic experience.

The movie also benefits from strong performances by its lead actors. Jai Day, in particular, delivers a standout performance as the conflicted taxi driver, Shing, infusing his character with both humor and pathos. Arran Hawkins also impresses as the wisecracking American, Mike, bringing a much-needed dose of levity to the film.

Philippe Joly rounds out the trio as the no-nonsense investigator, Jackie, who adds a touch of gravitas to the proceedings. The chemistry between the three actors is palpable, and their banter and camaraderie give the film a sense of energy and urgency.

Overall, Lust and Found is an enjoyable crime caper that offers a fresh take on the genre. Its mix of comedy, action, and suspense keeps the audience engaged throughout, and its setting in the vibrant city of Macau gives the film a unique and exotic flavor. With its strong visuals, engaging performances, and fast-paced narrative, the movie is sure to entertain both fans of crime films and general audiences alike.