On August 9th, the film Kung Fu Hustle starring Stephen Chow unexpectedly climbed to the top spot as the most-watched movie in Vietnam. This achievement demonstrates the enduring popularity of the classic film, which was released 20 years ago.
During its screening, Kung Fu Hustle surpassed Shaolin Soccer, another film by Stephen Chow, to become the highest-grossing movie produced in Hong Kong (China). This action-comedy has also become the most widely released non-English film in the United States, a remarkable achievement for many directors.
Two decades after its debut, Kung Fu Hustle continues to captivate audiences, who analyze every detail and philosophy embedded in the film. QQ once praised this movie, asserting that every character, costume, dialogue, and detail has become iconic in Chinese cinema. Just a glance is enough for viewers to recognize the characters and their scenes in Kung Fu Hustle.
Characters such as Bao Tzu Gong, Bao Tzu Ba, and the notorious Fire Cloud Evil Spirit have left a lasting impression on audiences. To this day, Kung Fu Hustle stands as the most successful work in their careers.
Additionally, Kung Fu Hustle brought Stephen Chow numerous awards. At the 2004 Hong Kong Film Awards, the film was nominated for 16 awards and won 5, including Best Visual Effects, Best Sound, Best Action Direction, and Outstanding Editing. At the Golden Horse Awards, Kung Fu Hustle also secured 5 awards including Best Visual Effects and Best Director for Stephen Chow, out of 10 nominations.
Stephen Chow is often referred to as the King of Comedy in Hong Kong, with his works widely impactful and influential in popular culture. His films are praised for their humor intertwined with depth. He has created a unique comedic style known as “mo lei tau.” Hong Kong media asserts, “Every year there is a Best Actor, but a hundred years may pass before we see another Stephen Chow,” highlighting the exceptional talent of this artist.
