These comments are based on watching a version of the film that was dubbed into English.
This martial arts comedy is centred on Jiang, a character whose kung fu skills aren't quite as good as he thinks they are. He bluffs his way into a job where he is cautioned to stay away from a woman who is thought to be a witch. He gets caught spying on her and flees. He stumbles across two kung fu masters fighting in a clearing; the fight leaves both of them dead. It turns out one is a wanted criminal and the other is the 'Whip Hero'. Jiang assumes the heroes identity to claim the reward. Later he starts learning kung fu and gets a job helping guard a shipment from the witch and other bandits.
I must say I prefer to watch films in their original language and the fact that this dub isn't great does detract somewhat from the film. That said this film isn't about the dialogue it is all about the slap-stick martial arts. With Jackie Chan playing Jiang it won't surprise anybody that the fight scenes are solidly choreographed and more funny than thrilling. The silliness of many scenes is increased by comic sound effects and facial expressions. The plot it decent enough; it makes more sense than one might expect from a slapstick comedy. The acting is good... it might seem over the top in places but that just adds to the amusement. I'm not sure why it was given a UK-18 certificate as it is far less violent than many lower rated films I've seen. Overall a fun example of the genre; not a great film but well worth watching if you are a fan of Jackie Chan... just a pity it wasn't available in its original form with subtitles.
This martial arts comedy is centred on Jiang, a character whose kung fu skills aren't quite as good as he thinks they are. He bluffs his way into a job where he is cautioned to stay away from a woman who is thought to be a witch. He gets caught spying on her and flees. He stumbles across two kung fu masters fighting in a clearing; the fight leaves both of them dead. It turns out one is a wanted criminal and the other is the 'Whip Hero'. Jiang assumes the heroes identity to claim the reward. Later he starts learning kung fu and gets a job helping guard a shipment from the witch and other bandits.
I must say I prefer to watch films in their original language and the fact that this dub isn't great does detract somewhat from the film. That said this film isn't about the dialogue it is all about the slap-stick martial arts. With Jackie Chan playing Jiang it won't surprise anybody that the fight scenes are solidly choreographed and more funny than thrilling. The silliness of many scenes is increased by comic sound effects and facial expressions. The plot it decent enough; it makes more sense than one might expect from a slapstick comedy. The acting is good... it might seem over the top in places but that just adds to the amusement. I'm not sure why it was given a UK-18 certificate as it is far less violent than many lower rated films I've seen. Overall a fun example of the genre; not a great film but well worth watching if you are a fan of Jackie Chan... just a pity it wasn't available in its original form with subtitles.