A social problem film with the plot of a sports drama, Conduct Zero recounts the rehabilitation of a group of juvenile delinquents as they enter the world of competitive bicycle racing. With the help of their caring probation officer, the marginalised teenagers not only aim to redeem themselves but also prove their worth to society. If Jean Vigo's Zéro de conduit (1933), alluded to in the film title, celebrates the anarchic spirit, Conduct Zero maintains the possibilities of social acceptance and assimilation. Director Simon Yip's rounded portrayal of the characters invites us to sympathise with them without tipping into sentimentality. Stephen Ho was nominated for the Best New Performer at the Hong Kong Film Awards for his naturalistic performance. The well-paced cutting of the racing scenes presents a vicarious experience of the actions and their thrill; in this respect, the film is far from pale against the acclaimed 2015 bicycle racing drama To The Fore.

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