Watch Monga

Monga is a Taiwanese movie that revolves around the lives of gangsters in the early 1980s. The film is directed by Doze Niu and features a talented cast, including Ethan Juan, Mark Chao, and Ju-Lung Ma. The movie is centered around a group of high school students from the Monga district in Taipei. The students are living in a time where gang activity was rampant and being part of a gang was a rite of passage for many young men in the area. This film takes us on a journey of how a close-knit group of high school boys become embroiled in gang activity and how it affects their lives.

The film starts with a scene of a young boy being initiated into a local gang known as the "Four Brothers". As the movie progresses, we are introduced to Lin Chen-Hsi (Ethan Juan), a high school student who tries to avoid the gang conflict in Monga. However, he is soon drawn in when he becomes friends with the leader of the Four Brothers, Brother Bao (Mark Chao).

Lin Chen-Hsi is initially hesitant to join the gang, but he quickly realizes that it provides him with the sense of brotherhood and belonging he’s always craved. As he gets more involved in the gang’s activities, he learns that there is a price to pay for membership. He must be loyal to the gang and be ready to face violent confrontations with rival gangs.

The film portrays the struggles and difficulties that come with being a part of a gang. The members of the Four Brothers experience camaraderie, loyalty, and support, but they also face danger, violence, and betrayal. The gang members are constantly battling for territory and reputation, as rival gangs try to take over Monga.

The performances of the actors in Monga are impressive, with Ethan Juan delivering a standout performance as Lin Chen-Hsi. His portrayal of the conflicted and ambitious high-school student is excellent. Mark Chao, who plays the charismatic leader of the Four Brothers, commands the screen with his strong presence.

Ju-Lung Ma’s character, Haller, plays an important role in the film as he becomes the mediator between his boss, the head of the Red Gang, and the rival gangs. His performance is understated but effective in conveying the complexities of gang wars.

The film’s direction is superb, with Doze Niu successfully capturing the gritty and raw nature of the era. The camera work and the use of colors add to the authenticity of the film, making it an immersive experience for viewers.

The film touches on themes of brotherhood, loyalty, and the price one must pay to belong. It raises questions about the choices one makes and the consequences of those choices. While it is a gangster film, it is not a mindless action-packed movie. Instead, the film is an introspective look at the different aspects of gang culture, its impact on people’s lives, and the search for identity and belonging.

In conclusion, Monga is an excellent movie with an engaging storyline, impressive performances, and stunning visuals. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in gangster films, Taiwanese cinema, or anyone looking for an engrossing and thought-provoking movie experience.

Monga is a 2010 thriller with a runtime of 2 hours and 21 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.