Year: 1995
Director: Stanley Tong
Country: Hong Kong/Canada
Language: Cantonese/English
While most film critics of the time knew of his masterful work in Hong Kong, Jackie Chan was disappointed that he had not become a draw in the North American market. He had tried quite a few times to kick his way into Hollywood, but the big companies did not budge. It wasn't until Rumble In the Bronx that his work caught the attention of the West. It was his first wide theatrical release in North America, it received critical acclaim and was a great box office success.
A young man (Jackie Chan) visiting and helping his uncle in New York City finds himself forced to fight a street gang and the mob with his martial art skills.
Despite being set in New York City, the picture was filmed in Vancouver, BC, Canada. Jackie and his crew found production quite difficult as it initially meant putting up fake graffiti and making sure that no mountains made it into the background. Eventually Jackie decided to focus solely on the action and as a result, mountains can be seen in the background. The decision to make action a focal point proved wise, as the physical performances in this film shine. Both hero and villain(s) are entrancing; keeping you mesmerized with their actions throughout the run time.
Jackie's brand of kung fu comedy brings life to inanimate objects. Only he can turn pinball machines, trolleys, ladders and fridge doors into weapons. Only he can make us sympathize with the protagonist as he's getting beaten up by thugs, while simultaneously making us laugh at him. In addition to a great stuntman/choreographer, Jackie also knows how to use his camera well and is a masterful editor. He doesn't do fast cuts or cut on an inappropriate moment, rather he gives the fight scenes a rhyme and allows us to see action and reaction of each character.
If you haven't seen a Jackie Chan film, you MUST do so. He is undoubtedly one of the greatest performers of all time. While Drunken Master is my favorite, Rumble in the Bronx is also a great film to start at. This honestly could not have been made better.
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