Lau Kai-yuen (Andy Lau), a member of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), investigates a businessman, Ching Yat-yin (Tony Leung), who went from rags to riches through investing in real estate and manipulating the stock market. When the stock market crashes, Lau and his ICAC team scrutinize Ching and his multi-million dollar corporation, Carmen Group.

      Based on a true story, the screenplay by writer/director Felix Chong deftly maintains suspense as Lau repeatedly attempts to bring Ching to justice. Lau's task becomes increasingly difficult because Ching turns out to be a cunning con man. There's not much action or palpable thrills; instead there's psychological thrills as Lau struggles to gather evidence to prosecute Ching. Interestingly, the film also avoids lengthy courtroom scenes. Exposition is well-incorporated without diminishing the narrative momentum or confusing the audience. That said, there's not much left open to interpretation because it's quite clear how Ching ended up rich and getting away with his crimes for so many years. How introspective is Ching, though? How did he learn how to be so corrupt? How happy is he? The Goldfinger isn't quite a character study, so it doesn't slow down to explore the answers to those questions which makes it harder for Lau and Ching to come to life. It doesn't transcend the genre of crime thrillers like Michael Mann's Heat does nor does it take enough risks. Instead, writer/director Felix Chong instead focuses on Lau's determination to prosecute and how Ching becomes more greedy, power-hungry and corrupt as he evades justice for many years.

      Andy Lau and Tony Leung are in top form. They elevate the film with their terrific performances while exuding plenty of charisma. Their scenes together, especially, are spellbinding. The cinematography, set design, editing and use of music add some style and help the film to feel more cinematic concurrently. The only time that the visual style goes a little overboard is when slow-mo is used during a celebration at a meeting with a bank after Ching convinces them to loan him millions of dollars. It's a scene that feels surreal at times and also like a music video while overstaying its welcome. Despite those minor setbacks, The Goldfinger is a gripping, slick and exhilarating crime thriller.