Romeo Must Die (2000), directed by Andrzej Bartkowiak, is a martial arts action film with a modern twist on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The story follows Han Sing (Jet Li), a former Hong Kong cop who escapes prison and travels to Oakland, California, after learning his brother was murdered amid escalating tensions between Black and Chinese crime families.
Han’s investigation leads him to Trish O’Day (Aaliyah), the smart and strong-willed daughter of Isaac O’Day (Delroy Lindo), a powerful Black businessman tied to the turf war. As Han and Trish grow closer, they uncover a conspiracy involving corrupt property deals and betrayals within both families.
Their unlikely partnership faces danger from rival gang members and hidden enemies as they fight to expose the truth behind the violence and protect their loved ones. Featuring intense martial arts sequences, explosive stunts, and a touch of romance, Romeo Must Die blends action, hip-hop, and tragedy.
The film marked Aaliyah’s acting debut and was a box-office success, praised for its style and Jet Li’s dynamic action.
