The first of five Police Story movies. Directed by Jackie Chan himself it was a chance for him to show his audience he was capable of doing far more than just kung fu comedy. The movie was a great success and is considered his best by many fans of the genre.

I must have seen the film a dozen times, but only the last was the uncut version. Very often when we get videos in North America, coming from Asia (and possibly from other places too), we are treated to our own version. Meaning it is shorter, not necessarely better. Whose idea is this? Executives who know better than we, as an audience, really want. I suppose.
Lucky for me, I purchased the Hong Kong version of the DVD boxed-set containing the first three Police Stories. I have only watched the first one, so I don’t know about the difference between the North America and Hong Kong versions of the other two.

As a Jackie Chan movie, it is an excellent movie. There is a ton of action and really amazing stunts. And believe or not, credible acting (okay, not all of the acting). Also, in the not so flambyoant role of the lead’s girlfriend is a very young Maggie Cheung.

It is a good introduction to the genre for first-timers. If they can get over the 1985 hairdoes and gigantic portable phones. In itself the movie doesn’t look really dated. The camera work and the directing are as efficient as what we are used to see today. And Jackie as at the peak of his physical shape! No one can move like that, and it all seems so simple. As graceful as Fred Astaire dancing.

Okay, okay, I admit that’s pushing it a bit. But you get the picture.

For Jackie Chan fans it’s a must own film. For the standard jaded movie goer, it is a must see.

Go ahead, you’ll like it. And if you don’t, well you’ll know not to beleive everything you read now, won’t you?

Enjoy!