Source: Monkey Peaches
In Hong Kong, a shot had to be cut from the movie to avoid getting a Category III (adult only) rating. In the scene, Lam Ka-Tung shakes hands with Simon Yam with his left hand, which was considered as a gang-related gesture not suitable for the under-aged by Hong Kong Film Censorship Authority (FCA). The producing studio, Media Asia argued it was not a gang gesture and even provided testimony from a real gang member. However, FCA insisted that a Category III rating would be assigned to the movie if the shot was not cut. Director Johnnie To and all major cast members were very angry about it but Media Asia still made the cut in order to get a Category IIB rating for the movie.
In the mainland China, the movie is allowed for being distributed on DVD. However, this does not mean there will be no censorship. According to Zoke, the mainland Chinese video distributor, a few "minor shots“ have been acquired to be deleted by the authority.
I'm not sure tbh if there's a strong connection but the story suggests it's hitmen crossing paths again and the cast (Francis, Anthony, Roy, Simon) suggests there is a path between the films.
I'd say you better see The Mission just to know what kind of cinema you're getting yourself into. Deadpan absurdities was the recipe at many points for The Mission.
Btw again...Exiled was not Cat III at cinemas as censros demanded at least one shot of a triad hand gesture to be removed in order to secure the IIb certificate (and To or Media Asia apparently wanted no high rating this time around). That may be the only thing reinstated for the dvd version.
I have it on pre-order, but I know that I loved "The Mission" (although I think it is a bit overrated.) It is a great film, no doubt about it and I hope we do get an uncut HK DVD.
Asia-on-DVD.com wrote:The scene that gave this film its CAT III rating is present on the DVD. The scene shows Simon Yam shaking hands with another gangster with their left hands turned around. A triads agreement handshake.
Asia-on-DVD.com wrote:The scene that gave this film its CAT III rating is present on the DVD. The scene shows Simon Yam shaking hands with another gangster with their left hands turned around. A triads agreement handshake.
WHAHAHAHA, that's even lamer cut than what them poms are known for.
Deadpan absurdities was the recipe at many points for The Mission.
