Bohemian with a touch of noir, SPARROW succeeds as a subtle, yet poignant love story. Director Johnny To deftly blends the very disparate worlds of romance and survival. If you like watching how a chain of spontaneous events lead to love, this film may steal your heart. The film’s title derives its name from the Hong Kong street slang for “pickpocket”. Just like this eponymous, unassuming little bird, a thief of this caliber is known for gracefully swooping down on a wallet and “flying away” undetected. Kei (Simon Yam) is one such “sparrow”. He and his friends subsist by robbing clueless pedestrians. Kei’s laissez-faire lifestyle allows him to pursue other interests, and he loves to ride his bicycle around town equipped only with his vintage Rolleiflex camera, capturing whatever image catches his fancy. One day, he looks through his viewfinder and spots the stunning Chun Lei (Kelly Lin). The sparrow is intrigued, and of course, pursues. Armed with the timeless feminine duo--beauty and charm--Lei convinces Kei and his associates to steal something very valuable to her. They know her proposed job is risky, but their knowledge does nothing to lessen their intrigue. Kelly Lin soars in the character of “mystery woman.” At one point in the film she disappears altogether. Her portrayal of a frail, helpless woman who is determined to find resolution for her dilemma is as entertaining to watch as Simon Yam’s performance. In addition to the compelling acting, the cinematography of Hong Kong--renowned for its expansive skyline and natural setting--is superb. To takes delight in capturing the iconic images of this historic region of China, and Sparrow’s majestic views transform the congested metropolis into a city of earthly and lovely delights. The cinematography combined with a killer soundtrack set a definite mood, providing the perfect backdrop for the plot of intrigue.