A Fighter's Blues (2000)

A crucial entry from a different era of Daniel Lee's filmmaking, *A Fighter's Blues* (2000) stands out as a more grounded, character-driven drama. Before his work became defined by its often-criticized style-over-substance approach, Lee directed this poignant fighting drama about an aging boxer, brilliantly portrayed by Andy Lau. Lau delivers a mature and underrated performance as a fighter desperately seeking one last shot at redemption, with Japanese drama queen Takako Tokiwa co-starring. Notably billed as Andy Lau’s 100th film, it marked a significant milestone for the prolific actor, who would indeed go on to make a whole lot more. For fans accustomed to Lee's later, visually ambitious but sometimes narratively convoluted historical epics like *Three Kingdoms: Resurrection of the Dragon* or *14 Blades*, *A Fighter's Blues* offers a refreshing and emotionally resonant counterpoint, earning its place on a "Best Daniel Lee Movies" list. It's a testament to Lee's versatility, showcasing his ability to craft an intimate, character-focused story that prioritizes emotional depth and raw human struggle over grand spectacle. Lau's compelling portrayal anchors the film, making it one of his most memorable dramatic turns and a strong showcase for Lee's direction when focused on performance rather than pure action choreography. This earlier work remains a vital piece in his filmography, demonstrating a different, arguably more mature, facet of his directorial talent.