Operation Cougar (1989)

Present. A group of terrioists hijack a private jet from Taiwan and landed in an airstrip in an unnamed location somewhere of mainland China. The leader of the group (played by Ge You) threatens to kill the high profile Taiwan politician on the jet unless their comrades are freed from a prison in Taiwan. A team of Chinese special force are sent to rescue the hostage. The authorities from mainland China and Taiwan also have to co-operate to resolve the crisis.

This was early attempt of Zhang Yimou to shot an action film in present setting. He worked with his usually team of Gu Changwei (cinematographer), Gong Li and Ge You. Although not highly rated among his other work, this film is visually appealing.

There were a huge number of action/thrill films made in mainland China at that time. This one is certainly better than the rest. The added spice is the story background that mainland and Taiwan authorities have to co-operate.