Hard-hitting action
John Woo is normally a name we associate with hard-hitting, stylish, fast paced action movies. Many of the Chinese director's films are renowned for their balletic action sequences and cinematic use of slow motion. The third person action adventure, Stranglehold is Woo's first collaboration on a videogame and his flamboyant trademarks have been splattered over every inch of this blisteringly fast shooter.Much of the inspiration for Stranglehold is said to be taken from Woo's last film, which he made in Hong Kong prior to his exodus to the bright lights and big pay cheques of Hollywood.
The film was called Hard Boiled and starred Chow-Yun Fat as the hard-hitting renegade, Inspector 'Tequila' Yuen (The movie also featured a body count of over 300 people so that should give you some indication as to the type of game to expect from Stranglehold). Tequila, as we'll call him from this point forth, makes his return as the hero in this frenetic shooter and his likeness and voice have been lent by the famous Asian actor, whose talents were first discovered by Woo.
Click for larger image
Click for larger imageThe storyline is fairly typical of John Woo's style, and while it doesn't really stimulate those brain cells with its deep and meaningful plot, it’s still a well scripted story. Whether you’re intrigued by this tale of kidnapping, murder and intrigue is probably beside the point. The likelihood is that, like many action movies, the storyline will probably drift by you as you find yourself embroiled in the relentless action sequences and the 8 hours or so of finger-aching shoot-outs.