Plot Summary
Inspector Chan Ka Kui has faced the setbacks of being demoted to highway patrol following his handling of a controversial case involving the brutal arrest of crime lord Chu Tao from the prior film, Police Story. This situation has left a significant mark on his career, as the aftermath included the destruction of a squatter village and a mall, resulting in substantial losses for the government due to the necessary reconstruction and compensation for affected mall owners.
Moreover, his current assignment raises concerns for his girlfriend, May, who is relieved that Chan is no longer embroiled in perilous cases and can spare more time for their relationship. However, their happiness is short-lived when [Chu Tao], along with his conniving lackey John Ko, greets Chan with hostility. It turns out that Chu Tao has been unjustly released from prison, armed with a false medical certificate claiming he has mere months to live, thus intensifying his vendetta against Chan.
The tension escalates when John Ko and his henchmen confront Chan at his apartment, challenging him to a fight. In a turn of events, when May and her aunt suffer violence at the hands of Ko’s gang, Chan snaps and retaliates in a restaurant brawl. This leads to a moment of disillusionment such that Chan resigns from the Royal Hong Kong Police Force, planning a serene getaway to Bali with May. However, fate intervenes when he’s asked to respond to a bomb threat at the mall while at a travel agency. Ignoring his instincts to stay away from police work, he insists on leading the evacuation, resulting in a devastating explosion that levels the entire mall.
In the aftermath, mall owner President Fung receives a bomb threat demanding a $10 million ransom under dire warnings of further destruction. With this urgency pulling him back into active duty, Chan is reinstated, which leads to a mixed blessing as he’s forced to abandon their trip to Bali, taking May’s passport in the process, and leaving her behind as he dives into solving the bombing case.
Determined to unravel the mystery, Chan suspects that the explosives were either smuggled or linked to some construction activities, prompting him to plant a listening device in the office of the mall’s parent company to gather intelligence on the criminals. Meanwhile, May reenters Hong Kong, having been delayed in Indonesia, and feeling betrayed, ends her relationship with Chan.
As the narrative unfolds, Chan’s pursuit of justice is thwarted by [John Ko]‘s ambush, but his resilience shines through as he fends off the attackers. Their relationship takes a turn when May realizes Chan saved her from danger, leading to their reconciliation.
As Chan traces leads connected to the bombing, his investigation points toward a man named Cheung, who admits to selling explosives, which introduces him to another suspect, a deaf-mute martial artist known as Dummy. The stakes balloon when the bombing gang escalates their demands and kidnaps May, setting the stage for a dramatic confrontation.
Chan, faced with being strapped into an explosive vest, cleverly evades disaster and manages to save May from her captors in a warehouse exploding with fireworks. In a fierce showdown with Dummy, Chan unleashes a power that ultimately sees him triumph over his foes, culminating in a breathtaking escape from the flaming wreckage.
Timeline
Demotion to Highway Patrol
Inspector Chan Ka Kui is demoted to highway patrol following the fallout from his handling of a controversial case involving crime lord Chu Tao. This demotion weighs heavily on his career as it highlights his turbulent past with police work and the destruction it caused.
Destruction and Losses
The aftermath of Chan's previous case leads to significant destruction, including a squatter village and a mall. The government faces substantial losses due to the necessary reconstruction efforts and financial compensation for the mall owners affected by the chaos.
Chan's Relationship with May
Despite his demotion, Chan's girlfriend, May, feels relieved that he is no longer embroiled in dangerous police cases. Their relationship seems stable, as they can finally spend more time together, yet the peace is threatened by looming dangers.
Chu Tao's Threat
The threat intensifies when Chu Tao, along with his associate John Ko, confronts Chan with hostility. Recently released from prison under dubious conditions, Chu Tao bears a vendetta against Chan, determined to settle the score.
Confrontation at Home
John Ko and his gang become aggressive, confronting Chan at his apartment. This disturbing encounter leads to violence, prompting Chan to react decisively when May and her aunt come under attack from Ko's criminal group.
Retaliation in the Restaurant
In a fit of rage fueled by the violence against his loved ones, Chan retaliates by engaging in a massive brawl at a restaurant. This event marks a crucial turning point that drives him to resign from the police force altogether.
Resignation and Plans for Bali
Following the chaotic brawl, Chan decides to resign from the Royal Hong Kong Police Force. He plans a peaceful getaway to Bali with May, hoping to escape the turmoil of their lives and find tranquility together.
Bomb Threat at the Mall
While looking forward to his trip, Chan receives a call regarding a bomb threat at the mall. Ignoring his previous decision to leave police work behind, he insists on leading the evacuation operations, highlighting his innate sense of duty.
Devastating Explosion
Unfortunately, despite Chan's efforts, a devastating explosion occurs, leveling the entire mall. This catastrophic event demands immediate action from Chan and serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of his job.
Reinstatement to the Force
In the wake of the explosion, Chan is urgently reinstated to help with the situation involving the bomb threat and its implications. This reinstatement poses a dilemma as it disrupts his plans with May, who he must now leave behind.
Planting Listening Device
Determined to uncover the truth behind the bombing, Chan plants a listening device in the parent company of the mall to obtain vital intelligence. His investigation leads him down a dangerous path with high stakes.
May's Return and Breakup
May returns from Indonesia only to find herself feeling betrayed by Chan. Their relationship suffers as tensions rise, leading to May deciding to end things with him, adding emotional strain to Chan's already difficult situation.
Ambush by John Ko
During his investigation, Chan is ambushed by John Ko and his henchmen, but displays resilience in fending them off. This encounter strengthens his resolve to protect not only himself but also those he loves.
Kidnapping of May
The tension escalates dramatically when the bombing gang kidnaps May as part of their sinister plan. This shocking event elevates the stakes and puts Chan's skills and determination to the ultimate test.
Final Showdown and Rescue
In a climactic showdown, Chan cleverly evades being strapped into an explosive vest and manages to rescue May from her captors in a warehouse filled with fireworks. His battle culminates in an explosive escape, showcasing his bravery and skill.
Characters
Chan Ka Kui (Jackie Chan)
Chan Ka Kui is a dedicated inspector who faces the repercussions of his past actions while trying to maintain a balance between his career and his relationship with May. His character embodies resilience and a strong moral compass, displaying an unwavering commitment to justice despite personal turmoil.
May (Maggie Cheung)
May is Chan's girlfriend, who provides emotional support yet feels the strain of Chan's duties as a police officer. Her character represents vulnerability and the struggle between love and fear for their future together. She ultimately grows stronger, recognizing her own worth and independence.
John Ko (Charlie Cho)
John Ko is a cunning and ruthless lackey of Chu Tao, challenging Chan at various points in the story. His character is a representation of the volatility of criminal elements that threaten the protagonist, showcasing the lengths to which he will go to exert power.
Chu Tao (Yuen Chor)
Chu Tao is the film's primary antagonist, recently released from prison and seeking revenge against Chan. His character is manipulative and dangerous, posing a significant threat to Chan and all he holds dear. His return to the scene escalates the conflict and drives the plot toward a dramatic resolution.
Setting
Time period
1980s
The events unfold during the late 1980s, a period marked by socio-political changes and increasing crime rates in many urban areas. This era highlights themes of law enforcement struggles, notably in Hong Kong, where crime lords challenged police authority as depicted in the film.
Location
Hong Kong, Bali
The movie primarily takes place in Hong Kong, a bustling metropolis known for its vibrant culture, towering skyscrapers, and dynamic street life. The story also refers to Bali, a tropical paradise famous for its beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and serene atmosphere, representing Chan and May's dream getaway.
Themes
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Justice
The pursuit of justice is a central theme in the movie as Chan Ka Kui fights against crime and corruption. His struggle against the re-emerging crime lord Chu Tao illustrates the ongoing battle between law enforcement and organized crime. The story emphasizes resilience and determination in the face of personal and professional challenges.
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Love
The relationship between Chan and May serves as a poignant theme in the film. Their love story reflects the tension between personal happiness and professional duty. Throughout the challenges they face, their bond strengthens, illustrating the importance of love as a source of motivation and resilience.
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Sacrifice
Sacrifice resonates throughout Chan's journey, from risking his career to save May to prioritizing public safety over personal desires. The plot showcases how sacrifices are often needed in the pursuit of noble causes, emphasizing that true heroes often place others before themselves.
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