Review of Big Trouble in Little China (1986) by Christopher S — 11 Sep 2011

Simply a great cult classic. I saw it when it first came out in 85-86 and thought it was hysterical. I recently watched it again and I still got a lot of laughs. Overall, I really appreciate John Carpenter and Kurt Russell's work in this movie. It was definitely ahead of its time. It has humor, great kung fu (homage to the genre before it was cool), Chinese mysticism, great special effects, and most importantly it never took itself seriously.

This is a rough and tumble tale set in the dark underworld of SanFrancisco's Chinatown. John Carpenter's cult classic is jam packed with everything and is even more popular today than when it was released in 1986. This movie is not the greatest plot wise, but it definitely has it's charms. It has a little something for everyone; comedy, drama, martial arts, sorcery, and a lot of weapons including an assortment of guns, swords, knives & lots of super flying kicks. I do feel the great cast has alot to do with the Charm of this film. Kurt Russell who is a Carpenter Fave, really does a great job here. If you weren't a fan of Russell before seeing his earlier work, you will after this. Dennis Dun also does a tremendous job and carries the movie as much as Russell does. Its quite a shame he never became a star after this. Kim Cattrall is also very good and it's nice to see her earlier work. James Hong and Victor wong, Two of Hollywoods leading asian go to casting leads in the 80's were equally great and have some very funny scenes. I also enjoyed Donald Li's portrayal was also great and was pleased to find out he went on to a decent career in television.

Big Trouble in Little China" was a box office failure when it was released, but While it meant a failure for Carpenter during its day, "Big Trouble in Little China" is definitely one of his best films, and one of the best action/comedy movies ever made. Sure, many films mix action and comedy but very few films actually succeed in doing it intelligently and without remorse. "Big Trouble in Little China" is a must-see film for every action, western and martial arts fan.