let's put them in order.
first release - part 3
second release - part 1
final release - part 2
sequentially, it does make complete sense to watch part 1 before
one watches anything subsequent.
however, the supposing part 1 is designed based on the ending,
which was the first release.
furthermore, the linkage could be minimal between
the said part 1 and 2. reason given that the producer
probably want to release part 1 for marketing
purpose and/or to sell a few more tickets.
thats what prompt me to ask such a question.
on top of that, part 1 does not have initial stars like andy lau
and tony leung. inevitably, it just make feels that u are watching
an imitation.