What are the main features of Woo's style of camerawork and editing, particularly in the action sequences? How fast does he cut? From what points of view does he depict the action? What kind of rhythms are set up by Woo's editing? What are the effects of the other devices he frequently uses, like slow-motion and close-ups? What about the symbolism of churches, doves flying, and the like?
More generally, how does Woo's presentation of action differ from Hollywood action films from the same time (late 80s and early 90s)?
How does this movie work as a genre film? What do you make of the combination of gangster film and melodrama? How do the genre references allow Woo to portray, in all sincerity, actions that are operatic, exaggerated, self-consciously 'over the top'?
How are these genre elements related to the stereotyping of gender roles in the film? What do you make of the film's male bonding theme (the relation between Jeffrey and Sidney, and then between Jeffrey and Li)? And how does this compare to the relationship between Jeffrey and Jennie?