One Way Only (1981) User Reviews

Shaw did this better before

[Leofwine_draca · 6/10 · 25 October 2021]

ONE WAY ONLY is another 'angry young man' type drama from Shaw, although the message seems to have been lost by the 1980s and this is more like a random slice-of-life character study at times. It's very similar to an older Ti Lung movie I saw from Shaw, but the lead is no Ti Lung and it's much more muddled and subdued. On the plus side, there's always something going on here, and the proper drama, when it kicks in during the last 20 minutes, is well-handled and effective. A busy cast are given plenty of material and the racing scenes are quite fun. An average film overall and a sign of Shaw's slipping quality by the 1980s.

Great coming-of-age racing film

[Falconeer · 8/10 · 29 December 2010]

Obscure "youth in rebellion" biker film, this is an impressively shot, energetic early 80's gem. Drama, romance, and humor blend well with exciting action, as we are introduced to Ah Chang, the super-handsome & charismatic new kid, who is looking for a way into the local motorcycle scene. Before long Chang lands a job as apprentice to a mechanic (Danny Lee, who also directs) who happens to be an ex-prize winning motorbike racer. "One Way Only" has surprising character development; so much so that the viewer can care about certain people. Above all this is a movie about friendship, and Chang's bond with the guy nicknamed "Gold Hair" is at the center. Gold Hair has lost his mother in a fire, and his father seems to have lost his mind, and is living in the streets. Before drawing to a powerful dramatic conclusion, we are treated to exciting races, and vintage 80's motorcycles, and a lot of unforgettable situations both comic and serious. Chang's mother is a whiny nagging woman who cares only for how much money her son can throw her way. Chang's mentor tries his best to steer the boy in the right direction, but when it comes to the big race in Macau, and the promise of a lot of money and glory, Chang must learn and experience for himself, all of life's ups and downs. Excellent youth film, and is a must for motorcycle enthusiasts and biker film fans. This one is quite hard to find, but it is worth the trouble...