Adapted from the work of Russian writer Fyodor Dostoevsky, the long-canceled "Crime and Punishment" finally became a highlight of this year's Arts Festival, taking the stage at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts last weekend (21-23 March). Hong Kong Film Award actor Ben Yuen and freelance actor Leung Tin Chak portrayed the opposing male leads—Yuan as the cunning and morally ambiguous inspector Porfíry Dong, and Leung as the chaotic and mentally tormented "murderer" Rodion Lai. In this production, they critically examine morality and legality.

The story of "Crime and Punishment" revolves around justice and the struggles of the lower classes in society. In a time when basic needs were not met, who truly cares about justice?

To discuss "Crime and Punishment," we must touch upon Fyodor Dostoevsky's background. Before the publication of "Crime and Punishment" in 1866, Dostoevsky was exiled to Siberia for ten years due to revolutionary activities, returning to the then-capital St. Petersburg in 1860. As a local Hong Konger, we are all familiar with Siberia, but over a century ago, Dostoevsky was already known as the champion of winter there. Those ten years in Siberia marked a turning point in his life, where he found his faith and met his wife.

Dostoevsky's life experiences and faith profoundly influenced the writing of "Crime and Punishment." This work is not merely about crime and repentance; it is an analysis of human morality and the social conditions of his time. In the novel, Dostoevsky uses the protagonist Rodion's "crime" to explore the vast inequalities in society and challenges readers' preconceived notions of right and wrong. He poses a question: In an oppressive society, does an individual have the right to cross legal boundaries to change their fate? This question, raised in 1866 Russia, remains relevant in today's Hong Kong.