MovieChat Forums > The Corruptor (1999) Discussion > Danny's motives? (spoilers)

Danny's motives? (spoilers)

posted 11 years ago by scarface02
1 reply | jump to latest

I don't get Danny's motives at all. He needs to be a traitor to someone, yet it seems like he can't decide - Betray Nick Chen or betray the system.

He is completely determined to keep Chen alive; even after their conversation, where Nick implied that he'd rather die a cop than become a fugitive. Was Danny ever going to nail him for corruption? After all, Nick did hang that FBI agent out to dry.

Did Danny want to ensure that Nick Chen survived so that justice could take its course? Or did he merely want to pinch Chen to achieve a milestone in his career?

Alternatively, did Danny feel that he owed Chen and that he needed to repay him by turning a blind cheek?

I just don't get it. I can't figure out what would have happened to Nick if he managed to survive.

[–] Manton29 10 years ago

I just don't get it. I can't figure out what would have happened to Nick if he managed to survive.

I think Danny was similarly confused, and who wouldn't be under his circumstances - owes Chen a hell of a lot; wants to do his job well and atone for his father's sins. But speaking of his father... The guy must have been relieved that he didn't have to follow through on his mission but torn up by guilt, hence his refusal to betray his fallen friend and comrade. A brilliant bit of complexity but slightly rushed in the wrapping.

That's my take, anyone else got anything to add or counter with?

Cheers,

Manton

Time for a new signature, perhaps. Hmmmm...