Taiwanese Gangster Saga ‘Gatao’ Continues with ‘Like Father Like Son’
The latest installment in the Taiwanese “Gatao” film series, “Like Father Like Son,” explores themes of friendship through two new characters, offering an accessible entry point into the cinematic universe.
UDINE, Italy — the “gatao” cinematic universe expands with “Like Father like Son,” the newest chapter in the popular Taiwanese gangster film series. The film, already released in Taiwan last summer, was showcased at the Far East Film Festival.
‘Gatao’ Series Evolves into Cinematic Universe
The “Gatao” series has grown into a significant cinematic franchise, with previous installments like “The Last Stray,” which served as a prequel, presented at the Far East Film Festival in 2021. ”The Last Stray” followed the box office success of “Rise of the King,” one of Taiwan’s highest-grossing films.
Taiwanese Gang Film ‘Gatao: Like Father Like Son’ Explores Brotherhood, Rivalry
TAIPEI, Taiwan – “Gatao: Like Father Like Son,” the latest installment in the taiwanese “Gatao” film series, plunges viewers into a gritty world of gang warfare and male camaraderie. Set in a metropolis in northern Taiwan, the film explores the intense conflicts between rival gangs, offering a testosterone-fueled narrative focused on friendship and loyalty.
Turf Wars and Shifting Alliances
Taking place a few years before the events of ”The Last Stray,” “Like Father Like Son” delves into the origins of the Mongrels, a group of street thugs who eventually become the infamous Five Tigers of Fort North, central figures in the second film, “Rise of the King.” The Mongrels find themselves caught in a brutal conflict between the Beiguann and Daqiaotou gangs. The film features Michael, played by Sunny Wang, a character familiar to fans of the series from the first film.
the film also introduces two new key figures: Meng,portrayed as a leader within the Mongrels seeking a fresh start after prison,and Scorpion,a central figure in the Daqiaotou gang who clashes with the Mongrels after they carry out a job for Michael.
Balance of Old and New
“gatao: Like Father Like Son” strikes a balance between familiar faces and new characters. This offers compelling viewing for longtime fans while providing an accessible entry point for newcomers unfamiliar with the “Gatao” saga.
A World of Men
“Like Father Like Son” distinguishes itself from other installments in the series with it’s hard edged focus on male relationships, which are essential in understanding the dynamics of power and loyalty within the criminal underworld.
Taiwanese Gangster Film “GATAO: Like Father Like Son” Explores Loyalty and Tradition
UDINE, Italy—”GATAO: Like Father Like Son,” a Taiwanese gangster film, meticulously pays homage to the conventions of the Eastern gangster movie genre, presenting a distinctly masculine world where female characters have limited presence. The film’s respect for its source material, coupled with strong character development and performances from well-known Taiwanese actors, makes it compelling. The franchise is set to expand into a television series,offering an ideal platform to further explore the characters and enrich thier development beyond action sequences.
Baseball bats and Brotherhood: The Action of “GATAO”
“GATAO: Like Father Like Son” distinguishes itself through its dedication to character building within the familiar framework of gangster films.The narrative delves into the complexities of loyalty, family, and tradition, themes common in the genre, but here are given nuanced treatment through the performances and writing.
Presented at the Far East film Festival 2025, the film uses familiar tropes to explore deeper themes, setting the stage for the upcoming television series to expand on these ideas with greater depth and complexity. The series promises to give solidity to characters beyond their roles in complex action choreography.
Taiwanese Gangster Film ‘Gatao: Like Father Like Son’ Delivers Action, Depth
A new installment in the Gatao franchise, Gatao: Like Father Like Son, delivers solid action sequences, character development, and a compelling narrative for fans of the gangster movie genre.
Creative Action Choreography Defines the Film
While action might potentially be less prevalent than in some similar films, the choreography, overseen by Hong Eui-jung and Hung Shih-hao, offers creative and solid fight scenes. Baseball bats feature prominently, with firearms used sparingly. The violence is robust, sometimes elegant, and excessive when needed, with at least one notably brutal confrontation.
Character Depth Adds Value
Gatao: Like Father Like Son satisfies fans of the genre by offering depth in character development, which is a major value added to the movie. The movie dose not try to add extra nuances, since the previous chapter already attempted that.
A Solid Action film for Genre Enthusiasts
Gatao: Like Father Like Son is a solid action film that doesn’t limit itself to just combat and action sequences. It enriches the genre with careful writing and character interpretation without inventing anything particularly new. Though, experts agree it’s more than capable of satisfying fans of oriental gangster movies.
Compelling Action, Complex characters: A Review of the Film’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Audiences are praising a new action film for its impactful staging, well-developed characters, and creative yet brutal action choreography. However,the film isn’t without its drawbacks.
What Makes This Film Stand Out?
The film excels in several key areas, setting it apart from others in the genre:
- Striking Visuals: The film utilizes solid and impactful staging to enhance the viewing experience.
- Character Depth: Unlike many action movies, this film invests in writing characters with more profound backgrounds and motivations.
- Dynamic Action: The action sequences feature creative choreography with raw elements.
Potential Drawbacks
Despite its strengths, the film exhibits certain weaknesses that viewers should consider:
- Inconsistencies in Plot: Some viewers may find moments where the narrative structure falters.
- Pacing Issues: The film’s momentum may lag in certain sections, impacting overall engagement and viewer retention.
Overall Impression
While its flaws may be detracting for some viewers,the action film showcases strong creative choices and compelling storytelling. Viewers seeking more than just explosions may appreciate its efforts to add character nuance to action sequences.
Di4ri Season 2: Teenage Drama Returns to Netflix
MILAN – Netflix’s Italian teen drama, Di4ri, has returned for its second season, continuing to chronicle the lives and relationships of a group of middle school students.Set against the backdrop of impending school closure, the series delves into the personal challenges and evolving dynamics of its young cast.
School on the Brink: The Premise
The story revolves around the students of Galileo Galilei Middle School, facing the potential shutdown of their institution. Season 2 further explores themes of friendship, love, and self-discovery as the characters navigate typical adolescent experiences while confronting the uncertainty of their school’s future. New relationships blossom,and existing bonds are tested,adding layers of complexity to the narrative.
What Works in Season 2
- Authentic Teen Experience: The series effectively portrays the ups and downs of teenage life, capturing the emotional rollercoaster of adolescence.
- Engaging Storylines: The plotlines are compelling and relevant, resonating with younger audiences.
- Character Development: Viewers see growth and evolution in the main characters, making them more relatable.
Potential Drawbacks
- Underdeveloped Female Characters: The series struggles to give adequate screen time and depth to its female characters, who often feel secondary in a predominantly male-focused world.
- Niche Appeal: Those who generally dislike teen dramas may find little to appreciate in Di4ri.
Given the existing Q&A,here are two PAA (People Also Ask) related questions:
Taiwanese Gangster Saga ‘Gatao’ Continues with ‘Like Father Like Son’ – Q&A
This article explores the latest installment in the Taiwanese “Gatao” film series,”Like Father Like Son,” while also touching upon it’s cinematic universe and the nuances of the gangster genre. To better understand the film and its context, here’s a Q&A:
frequently Asked Questions
What is the “Gatao” series about?
The “Gatao” series centers on Taiwanese gangster life, exploring themes of brotherhood, loyalty, rivalry, and tradition within a gritty, masculine world. The films offer action sequences,character development,and delve into the complexities of the criminal underworld.
What is “Like Father Like Son” about?
“Like Father Like Son” focuses on the relationships within the Mongrels, a group of street thugs and their conflicts with rival gangs, particularly the Daqiaotou. It explores the origins of the Five Tigers of Fort North, key figures in earlier films. It provides an accessible entry point for new viewers.
Who are the key characters in “Like Father Like Son?”
Key characters include Michael (from the first film), Meng (a Mongrel leader), and Scorpion (a key figure in the Daqiaotou gang). The film also introduces new characters that are central to the plot.
How does “Like Father Like Son” connect to other “gatao” films?
The film serves as a prequel to some events in the series, providing a deeper look into the origins of key characters and gangs featured in earlier installments, like “Rise of the King.”
What makes “Like Father Like Son” stand out?
The film distinguishes itself through its focus on character development, creative action choreography, and exploring the complexities of male relationships within the gangster world. It offers a balance between familiar faces and new characters.
Is it necessary to have seen other “Gatao” films to enjoy “Like Father Like Son?”
No, “Like Father Like Son” is designed to be accessible to newcomers. Though, fans of the series will appreciate the connections and expanded universe it builds upon.
where can I watch “Gatao: Like Father Like Son?”
The film was showcased at the Far East Film festival 2025 and was released in Taiwan in the summer of 2024 so it might be available on streaming platforms soon.You can check local listings for availability.
Explore the world of “Gatao” further, and discover the depth and action of “Like Father Like Son” by watching the film.
