Comedies from the 1980s have a distinct sense of humor that wouldn’t exactly fly with today’s audiences. This really holds true for films from Hong Kong, which often walk a fine line between humor. After the success of Police Academy (1984), a slew of films followed bumbling police officers who save the day almost by accident. Hong Kong cinema would mix in high-octane martial arts segments and create a genre all its own. 88 Films delivers Yuen Biao’s entry in the genre, Rosa (1986), in its own special edition, and it’s a blast.
After graduating from the police academy, “Little Monster” Ha (Yuen Biao) and Lui Kung (Lowell Lo) each make major mistakes on the job, and Inspector Tin (Paul Chun) decides to put the two screw-ups together. Eventually, they’re assigned to a case involving a drug-smuggling operation and ex-cops.
The only way to bring them all down is to convince Rosa (Siu-fan Luk), the model girlfriend of a missing informant, to take his place. Kung’s sister, Lui Lui (Kara Wai), is along for the ride, and the four of them soon find themselves in the crosshairs—and maybe, if they’re lucky, they’ll get out alive.
Rosa is more of a comedy than an action film, which may be helpful to know going in. With Yuen Biao, some viewers may expect wall-to-wall action, but this film does not deliver it. What it does have is Lo and Biao as a comedy duo, and they’re very funny together. The humor is childish and doesn’t always land, but when it does, there are a few belly laughs.
The entire cast is fun to watch, with Luk and Wai stealing several scenes. Most of the action takes place during the last act, and it certainly doesn’t disappoint. Biao has some great moments and really gets the opportunity to showcase his agility. Kara Wai also joins in the action, showcasing her impressive skills. There’s just something genuinely charming about Rosa that makes this forgotten classic well worth your attention.
88 Films always delivers in presentation, and this set is no exception. While the special features are solid, they are a bit skimpy. The disc includes two commentary tracks, interviews with Joe Cheung and Benz Kong, English opening and closing titles, an image gallery, and a trailer.
The packaging is in line with their other Hong Kong releases, featuring an O-ring and rigid case, a 40-page book, and a premium postcard. Rosa is a martial arts comedy with a killer cast, and 88 Films really does it justice with this release.
, with a loaded special edition, and it’s a blast for fans of '80s Hong Kong films.){kind=link}