King of Comedy (1999) (3½ Stars)

Wan Tin Sau is an aspiring actor, but he can only get parts as an extra in Hong Kong action films. As an extra he's not successful, because he insists on over-playing his roles and getting himself too much attention. He also works in his village community centre, where he gives acting lessons.

Wan Tin Sau falls in love with Lau Piu Piu, an escort girl who comes to him to learn how to pretend to be an innocent young girl for her male customers. Shortly after this he receives his big break and wins the leading role in an action film. The leading lady has romantic interest in him, so when she sees that he prefers Lau Piu Piu she has him fired. Show business is tough.

I don't understand the significance of the film's title. Is it a mistranslation of the Chinese?

This is a pleasant love story that's unfortunately spoilt by disgusting music in the love scenes. It's supposed to be romantic music, but it's so slushy that it just churns my stomach.

Jackie Chan appears as a stunt man, but his fans shouldn't get too excited. He's only on screen for 28 seconds. I timed it.

This is what I call subtle product placement.

I'm a fan of Stephen Chow, but this isn't one of his best films.I bought this film on DVD ten years ago, but it's now out of print.

This DVD release is a good example of why only native English speakers should be allowed to write the subtitles. Even though the subtitles are easy to understand, the grammar is bad throughout the film. Typical examples are:

"How dare you asking me for help?"

"Stop fighting anymore".

That's just embarrassing.