Johnnie To
DirectingAbout Johnnie To
Johnnie To Kei-Fung (Chinese: 杜琪峯, born 22 April 1955) is a Hong Kong film director and producer. Popular in his native Hong Kong, To has also found acclaim overseas. Intensely prolific, To has made films in a variety of genres, though in the West he is best known for his action and crime movies, which have earned him critical respect and a cult following. His films, often made in collaboration with the same group of actors, screenwriters and cinematographers, frequently explore themes of friendship, fate and the changing face of Hong Kong society. Sometimes described as "multifaceted and chameleonic" due to his ability to switch tones and genres between movies, To is nonetheless seen as having a consistent style, which involves mixing subdued realism and social observation with highly stylized visual and acting elements. To heads the Hong Kong-based production company Milkyway Image with his frequent co-director Wai Ka-Fai.
Career Statistics & Market Influence
Analyzing the cinematic journey of Johnnie To reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 15 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.
Genre Dominance: Documentary
The majority of Johnnie To's filmography leans towards the Documentary genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.
The "Box Office" Signature
With a 13% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Johnnie To remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in Boundless, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.
Best Johnnie To Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Johnnie To's career based on audience ratings.
Complete Filmography & Success Status
Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Johnnie To.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | In the Mood for Melville | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 2016 | Three | Wong Superintendent (voice) | Average | Similar → |
| 2016 | The Weaving of a Dream: Johnnie To's Vision and Craft | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 2013 | Boundless | Self | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 2010 | Johnnie Got His Gun! | Himself | Flop | Similar → |
| 2010 | Code Name: Melville | Self | Hit | Similar → |
| 2004 | Katanas, yakuzas y cintas de video | (archive footage) | Flop | Similar → |
| 2001 | Grit & Polish: Heroines from Hong Kong | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 2001 | Hong Kong Superstars | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 1998 | Expect the Unexpected | - | Average | Similar → |
| 1991 | Sisters of the World Unite | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 1991 | The Banquet | - | Average | Similar → |
| 1991 | The Royal Scoundrel | Taxi Driver | Flop | Similar → |
| 1990 | The Iron Butterfly II | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 1988 | It's No Heaven | Club Patron | Flop | Similar → |
Johnnie To - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Johnnie To?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Johnnie To is "Boundless" with a rating of 7.5/10.
How many movies has Johnnie To acted in?
Johnnie To has been featured in at least 15 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Johnnie To?
Other notable films include "Code Name: Melville", "Expect the Unexpected", and "Three".