Kung
Fu Hustle: Axe Kickin' Edition (2004)
Sony
Cast:
Stephen Chow and a cast of thousands.
Rating:
R.
Run
time: 100 mins.
Genre:
Action.
Verdict:
Brilliant
(see rating
system)
I'm
not a huge fan of Kung Fu movies, but this is the exception
that proves the rule: always check out films that create a
buzz.
And
Kung Fu Hustle certainly created some buzz when it hit theatres
2004. Director/actor and co-writer Stephen Chow virtually
reinvented the Kung Fu genre, blending impressive fight scenes
with Looney Toons-type cartoon action, knockabout comedy and
even a touch of pathos.
The
result is totally fresh and often exhilarating.
Chow
plays Sing, an inept small-time crook who's been getting his
ass kicked ever since he was a small boy trying to help a
little girl being picked on by neighbourhood toughs. Tired
of being a loser no one respects, Sing wants to join the notorious
Axe Gang, who run all the rackets and eliminate anyone who
stands in their way - including the cops.
But
when Sing tries to throw his weight around in a slum, he inadvertently
sets up a battle between the Axe Gang and the slum dwellers.
It seems like no contest, but The gang soon finds out it's
bitten off a bit too much.
Sing
is recruited to help the gang get its revenge via an assortment
of hired killers, but it isn't long before his conscience
starts bothering him and he lashes out at the gang master.
You guessed it - he gets his ass kicked again.
Sing's
rebirth as a master of virtue - and Kung Fu master - makes
for a great story.
Fantastic
action scenes, laugh-out-loud comedy. a great sound-effects
track and loads of extras make this a movie you'll want to
see time and again.
