Mad Detective

Retired detective Bun, who has schizophrenia, returns to active duty at the behest of a new recruit to crack a perplexing homicide. The case knots around a missing colleague and a police officer linked to the crime who may be living with more than one persona. As Bun maps the evidence, his own fractured perception becomes a tool and a problem, letting him glimpse the suspects as shifting figures, each with motives and secrets. As the rookie following his unorthodox method, the investigation deepens into a labyrinth of loyalties, lies, and hidden identities.

Directed by Johnnie To and Wai Ka-Fai, the 2007 film is based on an original story by Au Kin-Yee. It's a Hong Kong crime thriller that showcases To's stylistic flair and Wai's inventive approach. The production heavily relies on night shoots and tight urban locations to create a sense of claustrophobic suspense.

Mad Detective is often praised for its bold visual idea of portraying suspects inner lives as living silhouettes, a device that lingers in film discussions about identity in crime cinema. It is cited as a standout example of To's willingness to experiment with form, and its concept has been echoed by later directors exploring the boundary between perception and reality.

Critics praised the film for its atmospheric mood and strong performance from Ching-Wan Lau, though some felt its twisty narrative could be opaque. The drama centers on how memory and perception shape crime solving, examining how sanity tests our moral boundaries and how loyalty can mask motive. The film's noir texture and brisk pace keep the mystery tense while inviting reflection on identity and truth.

Box office details are not widely reported for this title, reflecting its status as a mid budget Hong Kong thriller that found a limited release and strong appeal to genre fans and critics in Asia.