Scorsese did a good job remaking an awesome movie

Rating: 7/10 (9 May 2007)

Most of the people who went to see the Departed, didn't know anything about the movie "Infernal Affairs". A great Chinese movie (part one of a trilogy), that left viewers yearning for more cop thrillers like these. Although no one actually thought of an US Remake. But if you make an American version, at least use a great director. Which they did, with Scorsese.
The story isn't exactly copied from the Chinese Original, but you get many high points from the Original. And some shock moments, might not shock you as much as they did with people, who haven't seen the Original. Some roles are also changed here. And here comes a funny fact (it might be written here on IMDb somewhere), that of one Jack Nicholson, who changed his role and the script as they went along with the filming. And even if his co-stars didn't mind (at least they didn't say otherwise), Ballhaus (cinematographer, DP) wasn't amused! And it seems as if this incident (like changing the whole set-up for a scene, just for Nicholson and lighting kind of everything, just to be sure to have Jack's spontaneous outbursts on film) causes Ballhaus considering, not working with Scorsese anymore.
But that's just behind the scenes. What matters is the result on screen. And that is good enough to watch. After reading the Oscar nominations, one could feel, that it might be Scorsese time. And although it's not his best film he ever made, Scorsese was overdue for an Academy Award!. I haven't said anything about the movie's plot, because I think you should watch the Original for the full impact ... but only if you're not afraid or have prejudices against Chinese movies!