A Gilded Game offers a glimpse into the ruthless world of corporate finance, highlighting the dehumanizing nature of stock market speculation. Directed by Herman Yau Lai-to, the film attempts to dissect the ethical costs of ambition and greed within the world of investment banking, but ultimately falls short of delivering a truly gripping story. The film’s moralistic tone and predictable plot make it suitable for viewers looking for a cautionary tale about the dangers of wealth and ambition, though it lacks the depth to make its message truly resonate.
The film centers on Gao Han, a finance graduate played by Oho Ou Hao, who starts as a small-town boy with no connections but lands an internship at a top investment bank due to his friendship with Chu Feng, the son of an influential businessman. Initially looked down upon by the bank’s unscrupulous leadership, including Helen (Huang Yi) and Mike (Kent Cheng Juk-si), Gao eventually wins the respect of Todd Zhang (Andy Lau), a principled equity analyst with strict ethical standards. Gao becomes Zhang’s protégé, learning the intricacies of due diligence and how to negotiate with potential IPO clients. These scenes of mentorship are the film’s most engaging moments, showcasing the dynamics of corporate life and the tension between integrity and ambition.
However, A Gilded Game takes a sharp turn when Gao succumbs to the temptations of wealth and power, joining the dark side of the corporate world. His transformation from an innocent, idealistic intern to a morally compromised professional feels rushed and unconvincing. The film’s portrayal of market manipulation lacks subtlety, with characters like the company janitor asking for financial advice for his sick wife, and random deliverymen boasting about their investments. These moments feel forced, contributing to the film’s heavy-handed approach to moral lessons.
Unfortunately, the characters themselves are largely underdeveloped. Gao’s change of heart lacks depth, and the motivations behind the schemes of Helen and Mike are flimsy at best. The love interests played by Jiang Mengjie and Ni Ni are criminally underwritten, further weakening the emotional impact of the story. While A Gilded Game touches on relevant themes of corporate greed and its consequences, it fails to offer compelling characters or a story that feels truly engaging.
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