Shaolin Soccer [IMPORT]
Average Rating: 4.5 Total Reviews: 129
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 On: 2008-10-20
You have to see it to believe, its campy, silly, fun and fall off the chair hilarious... get the crowd over !!
On: 2008-10-20
From the beginning of the movie, I was laughing my hindquarters off... Granted there were some awkward moments and some slow moments. But overall, the movie made me laugh (pretty hard in a few places).
I really didnt care for Kung Fu Hustle and thought The White Dragon, Kung Phooey! and Where Is Mamas Boy were all rather sophomoric attempts at spoofs. I did laugh pretty hard at Kung Pow - Enter The Fist, but I still think that Shaolin Soccer is the better "movie." It actually felt like fully-fledged movie rather than a strung out set of slapstick and sight gags.
It was definitely reminiscent of Balls of Fury in tone and plot, however. But, again, I think it came off much better.
Id actually recommend this movie for fans of the kung fu genre who are looking for a light-hearted spoof that still somewhat bottles a little bit of the kung fu genres spirit.
 On: 2008-09-30
Loved this movie the first time I saw it. I let a friend borrow it and they never gave it back. The great thing about this new version is that it is dubbed. Even though the subtitled version is a little different it does make for easier viewing. The subtitled version is available on this disc too.
Great movie. Funny, quirky, not the norm.
On: 2008-07-24
Saw part of this on TV, and wanted to watch the other half. The special FX are corny as all get out, but that makes it funnier. Its a typical HEA storyline, but a good one worth watching at least once or twice.
On: 2008-06-02
I was living in China when this hit the theatres, and wow was it popular. Now I know why. We start with some absurd Chinese slapstick and move into an excellent shows of special effects, stunts, and martial artistry. This is fun, thrilling, funny, crazy as all get-out, and just damn good. Ill be watching it again.
On: 2008-04-22
Even though this movie reminds me a little of the old Sunday afternoon "Kung Fu Theater" B movies, the antics are histerical, and the special effects are really good. The movie even has a pretty good plot and message about overcoming obstacles and striving to rise above ones circumstances. I happen to be a soccer fan, and rented it on a whim knowing it was a comedy. Once I had watched it, I knew that I had to own it. My kids and I watch it three or four times a year.
On: 2008-01-05
This is a hilarious and heart-warming tale of a group of downtrodden kung fu brothers who find new life in the world of football (soccer). It features the dynamic and hugely entertaining Stephen Chow, a man who makes his comrades in Western success Jackie Chan and Jet Li pale in comparison. Where Li is wooden and dull and Chan tries far too hard, Chow has an indifference that is refreshing. In some ways similar to his later offering, "Kung Fu (Hustle)," although less dark and violent, this movie is suitable for the whole family, particularly when you factor in the poignant lesson of avoiding prejudice.
The action is over-the-top CGI magic and makes for many of the belly laughs, but the romantic subplot between Chows dreamer and the ugly duckling bun maker is a sweet and unique concept. The mere fact that Chow creates a character that sees beauty beneath the scarred exterior of the skilled yet self-doubting street vendor is a testament to all that Hollywood fails to understand about their audience.
I could watch this movie over and over and always get a laugh, get a warm feeling in my heart, and get a thrill out of the effortless kung fu magic of the extraordinarily gifted Stephen Chow.
On: 2007-09-18
I cant remember the last time I laughed this hard. It was funny the second time too. And the third, fourth, fifth .... Then I had to force myself to stop rewatching the Taiji Sticky Buns scene (number 4 in scene selection). Try watching this movie after Red Trousers and youll appreciate it even more. Oh, and watch the American release first -- comedy doesnt work with subtitles alone.
On: 2007-07-12
very funny martial arts movie. Funny in the sarcastic sense. good to watch to lighten your day.
On: 2007-07-10
This movie was my first experience with Stephen Chow. Wow - is he ever funny! Very inventive & creative & original. This flick is extremely wild & has non-stop laughs the whole way through. The "assembling the samurai" sequence was especially hilarious. See this film if you want an excellently silly comic experience.
On: 2007-03-25
If you have seen Kung Fu Hustle youll probably enjoy Shaolin Soccer. It shows a light-hearted approach to spreading the Kung-Fu gospel to different walks of life. Its fun to watch and just enough special effects give it an amusing edge.
On: 2007-02-13
If you want a movie that is hilarious, unusual, heartwarming and inspiring all at once, buy this movie. This is a great add to any movie collection. Stephen Chow always manages to entertain us with his amazing imagination, characters and storylines while inspiring people with his uplifting message. WAtch this film.
by: dharden17 On: 2007-02-04
A fun movie! I actually liked it! The Special Effects were also good! If you can get it cheap, do so and have fun watching it! Three stars!
 On: 2007-01-13
i bought this movie after being blown away by the actor/directors masterpiece, Kung Fu Hustle.
while it contains similar humor elements and near-anime-type action, its really not worth the buy, and you would be better served by purchasing Kung Fu Hustle which is much funnier and overall a better production. i probably watch Kung Fu Hustle once every couple of months, which is no small complement.
by: jen-jay On: 2006-12-14
Stephen Chow did an amazing job of creating a story involving real characters in not so real, but agreeable situations. He has given each character a personality of its own; just to create comedy, with a humor that is sometimes honest and others rough. It has some great comedy moments although, coming from the characters, very peculiar ones.
It basically all comes from the characters. You have different persons, united by one thing: Shaolin Kung-Fu. And then you have one man, with one passion: Soccer. This premise helps to create human emotions in the characters. They all have a past that, for some reason, want to forget. Except one of them, who could be living in the past, and still thinks in the goodness of Shaolin Kung-Fu. He believes in it so much, that he gives speeches to people about the qualities of his culture, and the improvement it could do in society. He is right, and sooner or later, she will remind these things to some people, and they will all remember. They will all be prepared to get together again.
What a good-hearted film this is, and how it is filmed, its beyond imagination. You will find special effects from other world. In occasions, these will seem slow for you, and you will think they are not well managed or handled; but then you will watch. Watching will make you connect all the elements of the story, to make it one. In elements I include special effects, and say again: they couldnt be done better, especially in a movie like this one.
The entire cast did a wonderful job in their roles by giving their characters the personal development they need. They are not playing the most complex people in the world, but they still know what characters theyre playing. Some of the scenes, such as the first time we see Mui making bread, are absolute genius; so funny that you cant help but to laugh. I felt Mui seemed like she should have been in more of the film, and Ive read that a lot of her part got cut out of the American release, which is a shame. A number of people are saying the original is vastly superior to the edited U.S. version, but this version is so great that I would be mightily impressed if that were true.
The idea of this movie is ingenious, using the style of extravagant martial arts films in a soccer movie, and is done beautifully. You will probably find something youve seen before, I cant deny that. You will find the ending you expect, the situations you imagine, the resolutions you anticipate, or not. Youll have the old coach, the person with the dreams and the heart, the girl; its just that youll have them differently (youll realize what I mean). This is another type of cliché, a very different one, so different that I would say it is not a cliché at all.
On: 2006-10-29
By all traditional aspects of how to review a movie, Shaolin Soccer was a bad movie. It has bad acting, a predictable plot, horrendous dialog ... the best thing you could say about it was the the effects were very well done. But it was oh so much fun! Put away your sensibilities and you can sit back and just enjoy the show.
On: 2006-08-26
I thought the movie had great action. There also, was a little comedy here and there.
On: 2006-08-25
I thought the movie had great action. There also, was a little comedy here and there.
On: 2006-08-09
I love this movie. This and Kung Fu Hustle are among my favorite kung fu flicks of all time. The story is absolutely absurd but the movie is so much fun that I could care less. Its funny, touching and inspired, with some instances of cheesy special effects and strange humor laced throughout. If you liked Kung Fu Hustle at all, you have to watch this film. Its that simple.
I finally purchased the DVD today and I have to say that Im slightly disappointed and only because this DVD is lacking in the features department. There isnt much here besides both cuts of the film (the US and the original Chinese, the latter of the two being the one to watch), so youre covered if you cant stand the dubbed version or if youre not into the sometimes strange Chinese humor. But thats really it. No special features to speak of.
The picture quality is fine but I have to make special mention of the sound. This has one of the most active 5.1 mixes and if you want a film that really puts your surround system to the test, look no further.
In a nutshell, if you want a technically great presentation of the film and not much else, go with this. If you are looking for an edition loaded with behind the scenes info and commentary, etc, etc, prepare to be sorely disappointed.
by: Anonymous On: 2006-06-15
Very good movie enjoyable and funny VERY FUNNY, if you are or arent a soccer fan still watch this movie...
On: 2006-06-14
Very good movie enjoyable and funny VERY FUNNY, if you are or arent a soccer fan still watch this movie...
by: impossiblefunky On: 2006-06-02
One in a long list of films that have been butchered by Miramax in an effort to make Hong Kong films more palatable, SHAOLIN SOCCER suffered doubly due to shifting release dates (it was pushed back for over a year and a half). In its native country, SHAOLIN SOCCER was one of the most successful films and for good reason. It takes the typical "ragtag underdogs teaming up to fight against insurmountable odds" adding Shaolin kung fu and special effects to the mix for a perfect combination.
When the formerly formidable soccer star Golden Leg Fung (Man Tat Ng)--now a limping lackey thanks to his teammate Hung (Patrick Tse)--loses his job, he hopes to start his own soccer team. He happens upon Sing (Stephen Chow), a cleaner who has been charged by his former master with spreading the techniques of Shaolin kung fu. Sing has been searching for a way to repackage Shaolin in a new, exciting, and socially viable form. It takes a bit but Sing finally realizes that his "Iron Leg" technique would be a perfect fit in Golden Legs dream soccer team.
Golden Leg and Iron Leg set out to convince Sings five other brothers to join in their venture. They discover that Iron Head (Yut Fei Wong), Empty Hand (Kwok Kuen Chan), Weight Vest (Lam Chi Chung), Hooking Leg (Chi-Sing Lam), and Iron Shirt (Kai Man Tin) have let their confidence and skills lapse. Can they regain the spirit from their idealistic days of youth? You better believe it! After some hilarious training sequences, the brothers come together as a team and begin to make their way through the ranks of the soccer championships until their showdown with Hungs appropriately named "Evil Team."
Along the way, Sing meets Mui (Vicki Zhao), a master of Tai Chi and bread making. When the two meet, Sings infectious optimism and singing create chaos in the streets and results in a dance sequence highly inspired by Michael Jacksons "Thriller" video. This moment is typical of the uproarious tone of Chows film. As much as it took from other "losers banding together" films like THE BAD NEWS BEARS, REVENGE OF THE NERDS, and THE REPLACEMENTS, Chows film helped pave the way for other Asian "extreme sport" films such as Fumihiko Soris PING PONG and Yudai Yamaguchis BATTLEFIELD BASEBALL.
A word of warning: in all, nearly twenty-two minutes of the film were eliminated for the long-delayed, limited US release. Things missing include the backstory between Fung and Hung. Avoid this version at all costs. Region free NTSC versions with English subtitles are readily available via innumerable web vendors. Shun this (and any other) Miramax re-cuts like the plague.
On: 2006-04-28
I first saw the trailer for Shaolin Soccer while surfing around the internet, and thought it might be a fun film to watch with the kids-sort of a live action cartoon. When it arrived, I was stunned to see the brilliance with which this film was put together. Yes, it does capture zany cartoon magic I expected, and my kids loved it, but there was so much more there than met the eye.
There are two versions of the film on this DVD. Although its tempting to watch the "Americanized" version, youll be doing yourself a grave injustice if you do. The original Chinese version, subtitled, is a far better experience. Yes, my kids prefer the Americanized vesion, since its dubbed, but the Chinese version is a much more complete and enjoyable film. (It makes me wonder what happened to the original Chinese language versions of other films, like Rumble in the Bronx.) Watching the film the way Stephen Chow intended it makes it clear why it was the biggest film ever outside of the United States.
On: 2006-03-31
This movie is second only to Kung Fu Hussle for the all time greatest movie ever made. Buy it. Watch it. Learn Chinese by speaking all the lines.
On: 2006-03-30
This movie is second only to Kung Fu Hussle for the all time greatest movie ever made. Buy it. Watch it. Learn Chinese by speaking all the lines.
On: 2006-03-27
I really only wanted to see Vicki Zhao doing her thing but the whole movie seemed great. Obviously the visual effects were excellent and I loved the finishing goal against Team Evil. Woot!
P.S. 4 stars because neither the American nor the Import versions I got had the Special Features! The Import didnt even have the unique menu shown on the back cover (which also says special features). Ugh! Does anyone else have this problem? I.. want.. the.. special.. features.. (sob) unless theres some secret to accessing them... (sob)
On: 2006-03-12
WHAT AN IDIOT I AM. This is EASILY one of the 10 best movies that I have seen in 10 YEARS. Stephen Chow continues to prove hi brilliance with another touching story, with some of his most creative characters yet. I am still having a hard time deciding who my favorite character is. You have the iron head who is always smoking on the court. Oh yeah, bruce lee is the teams goalie, then as back up goalie you have a very heroic performance played by the stomach master.
Sorry I am throwing so much stuff at you here, but this movie is really that crazy. The story is about a cripple(one leg) meets stephen chow(mighty steel leg) and teaches him to play soccer. Stephen gathers his brothers together, and all try to redevelop their kungfu to apply it to soccer.
Now even though this is a good movie all around, this movie really flips the switch when the soccer matches start. This movie has that certain kinetic enery that draws you in towards the tv and, the only other movie I can think of is Iron Monkey.
This movie is for all ages, with a very limited number of jokes(2-4) where your kids might have needed to look away.
This dvd has both chinese and american versions. The chinese version is of course like 25 min. longer than the american, but the american version is surprisingly acceptable.
Best movie Ive seen since lord of the rings, best movie I saw before that was gladiotar, before that was requiem for a dream, etc. so this movie is pretty freaking good, dont keep passing it over for the next year or two like I made the mistake of doing.
On: 2006-03-11
WHAT AN IDIOT I AM. This is EASILY one of the 10 best movies that I have seen in 10 YEARS. Stephen Chow continues to prove hi brilliance with another touching story, with some of his most creative characters yet. I am still having a hard time deciding who my favorite character is. You have the iron head who is always smoking on the court. Oh yeah, bruce lee is the teams goalie, then as back up goalie you have a very heroic performance played by the stomach master.
Sorry I am throwing so much stuff at you here, but this movie is really that crazy. The story is about a cripple(one leg) meets stephen chow(mighty steel leg) and teaches him to play soccer. Stephen gathers his brothers together, and all try to redevelop their kungfu to apply it to soccer.
Now even though this is a good movie all around, this movie really flips the switch when the soccer matches start. This movie has that certain kinetic enery that draws you in towards the tv and, the only other movie I can think of is Iron Monkey.
This movie is for all ages, with a very limited number of jokes(2-4) where your kids might have needed to look away.
This dvd has both chinese and american versions. The chinese version is of course like 25 min. longer than the american, but the american version is surprisingly acceptable.
Best movie Ive seen since lord of the rings, best movie I saw before that was gladiotar, before that was requiem for a dream, etc. so this movie is pretty freaking good, dont keep passing it over for the next year or two like I made the mistake of doing.
On: 2006-03-09
one of the best kung fu comedies i have ever seen!! i highly recommend kung fu hustle by stephen chow as well!!! or any of his movies.. they are all hilarious!
On: 2006-03-08
one of the best kung fu comedies i have ever seen!! i highly recommend kung fu hustle by stephen chow as well!!! or any of his movies.. they are all hilarious!
On: 2006-02-28
Enjoyable,funny movie. Its a real kick!
Matt
Queens, N.Y.
On: 2006-02-27
Enjoyable,funny movie. Its a real kick!
Matt
Queens, N.Y.
On: 2006-02-02
This movie is a new generation of the Chinese comedy, I enjoyed a lot watching this movie as well as Stephen Chow new movie Kung Fu Hustle which it is funny as hell.
by: Anonymous On: 2006-01-24
As far as Im concerned, this film is a delightful masterpiece. Its full of silly comedy, but it also has a very nice story about a team of losers seeking to become something more. Yes, thats nearly every sports movie thats ever been made, but what seperates Shaolin Soccer is its visual flair.
The movie takes those old Wu Shu cliches and puts them on the soccer field. More importantly, it does so without insulting the kung fu genre. This is a silly movie, but its also full of geniune characters and enjoyable action. Never has soccer been more ridiculous or awe-inspiring.
I hate to compare movies, but Id have to say that though this film and Kung Fu Hustle share a lot in common, they are also very different. Shaolin Soccer is more realistic, set mostly in the real world, with super martial arts as its only strong fantasty element. Its a quieter film, but by no means did I find it boring. Its still a unique and entertaining film, full of nonsense, grace, and heart. And thats not something you get to see everyday.
On: 2006-01-23
Stephen Chow directs and stars in this powerfully creative comedy and special effects masterpiece. This is the best movie I have seen in years!
Im not a big fan of the "Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon" special effects by any means. Yet in this movie with similar effects I couldnt get enough of it. Mainly due to Stehpen Chow and the excellent writing, casting and directing (Stephen Chow pretty much does it all.) This is a movie that leaves an impression on you due to the fantastic cast and hilarious story. Wich by the way is about a soccer team of misfits put together for revenge and profit. Revenge on the part of the coach of the Shaolin team who is out to get back at his nemesis for past wrong doings. Profit for the ex-Shaolin kung-fu masters down on thier luck.
I wont say much more about this movie since I couldnt come close to doing it justice. If you like creative and original movies this is a priceless treasure. Mind blowing creativity and all round production.
I would be hard pressed to even think, of anyone, in cinema more talented and refined at making movies than Mr Chow. By making I dont mean just acting in or directing movies just to make a quick Hollywood buck. I mean having creative power all the way from the initial idea to making and putting it on screen.
Stephen Chow does a lot in this movie and others. He will stand out though for having tons of screen presence and massive charm. This whole cast is as top-notch as it gets. If you like comedy or kung-fu or creativity or epic and imaginary special effect scenes, or all of those things watch this movie!
I love kung-fu soccer!
On: 2006-01-19
I had heard about this movie online years ago and ordered it international from Taiwan because I was excited about it. It is an award-winning film. I was interested in the culture and views of these other people too, this being a top film over there. I am very much interested in other cultures and worldwide films.
I was amazed at how awesome this movie was. It is one of my favorite films of all time. Full of timeless themes of heroism, spirituality, and right and wrong -- all woven into a fun and entertaining film. I love the chi-energy-like fire effects when the players get their Shaolin power. Their film-making is poetic and gripping and this makes a great story.
This is a must-see film by any standard, great for the whole family (unlike a lot of films these days...).
by: t_janson On: 2006-01-18
I caught this one on cable just a few nights ago and I have to admit I laughed my you know what off. I think my teenaged son laughed harder than I did. This is like Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon Meets the Mighty Ducks. A former soccer great called Golden Leg Funghad his career ruined after a gangster caused him to break his legendary leg. years later, Fung meets a Kung Fu Master named Sing whose steel leg can do wonders on a soccer ball. Sing is a Bruce Lee look-alike and even wears the yellow jump suit that Lee wore in Game of Death. Fung reunites Sing with his former Shaolin brothers and puts their remarkable Kung Fu skills to work on the soccer field. The brothers all have names which are clues to their Kung Fu Skills such as Iron Head, Lighting Hands, Iron Shirt Tin, and hooking leg.
Together they form one outrageous teams complimented by Matrix like special effects as balls are kicked and scream like rockets, trailing fire and tearing up the field as they fly towards the opponents goal. Or Hooking Leg demonstrates the most incredible degree of hook ever seen as his kicks turn 90 degrees. Fung sets them up for a run in a bis soccer tournament and a show down with the team of the mob leader who caused his injury years earlier. His team is called the dastardly "Team Evil" just in case their black uniforms and scowls didnt tip you off.
The formula works like any of those American films such as Mighty Ducks, Bad News Bears or the like. Shaolin Soccer is like watching a live action cartoon with the wild, slap-stick action and special effects. The cast is hilarious with brilliant one-liners and facial expressions. The film is dubbed in English. Star Steven Chow directed the film and Chow also directed the highly successful Kung Fu Hustle that came out in 2005.
On: 2006-01-17
I caught this one on cable just a few nights ago and I have to admit I laughed my you know what off. I think my teenaged son laughed harder than I did. This is like Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon Meets the Mighty Ducks. A former soccer great called Golden Leg Funghad his career ruined after a gangster caused him to break his legendary leg. years later, Fung meets a Kung Fu Master named Sing whose steel leg can do wonders on a soccer ball. Sing is a Bruce Lee look-alike and even wears the yellow jump suit that Lee wore in Game of Death. Fung reunites Sing with his former Shaolin brothers and puts their remarkable Kung Fu skills to work on the soccer field. The brothers all have names which are clues to their Kung Fu Skills such as Iron Head, Lighting Hands, Iron Shirt Tin, and hooking leg.
Together they form one outrageous teams complimented by Matrix like special effects as balls are kicked and scream like rockets, trailing fire and tearing up the field as they fly towards the opponents goal. Or Hooking Leg demonstrates the most incredible degree of hook ever seen as his kicks turn 90 degrees. Fung sets them up for a run in a bis soccer tournament and a show down with the team of the mob leader who caused his injury years earlier. His team is called the dastardly "Team Evil" just in case their black uniforms and scowls didnt tip you off.
The formula works like any of those American films such as Mighty Ducks, Bad News Bears or the like. Shaolin Soccer is like watching a live action cartoon with the wild, slap-stick action and special effects. The cast is hilarious with brilliant one-liners and facial expressions. The film is dubbed in English. Star Steven Chow directed the film and Chow also directed the highly successful Kung Fu Hustle that came out in 2005.
On: 2006-01-09
Definitly Stephen Chows best film. I have to admit I didnt really enjoy Kung Fu Hustle as much as some. I miss the old Stephen Chow and love his older films such as God of Cookery, 60 Million Dollar Man, and Beijing with Love. Shaolin Soccer is right along the same lines. Very funny, and very well done. Miramax actually did a good job with this DVD, as it includes the original uncut version, and the dubbed version. They even included scenes not on the Hong Kong DVD like the dance scene. Very recommended!
by: darkgenius On: 2005-12-22
Shaolin Soccer makes for perfectly ridiculous fun when a team of down and out kung fu masters coalesce around a degraded legend turned coach to take the sport of Chinese soccer to new heights (literally). For twenty years, Golden Leg Fung (Man Tat Ng) has limped around in the service of Team Evil Coach Hung (Yin Tse) waiting for his chance to be a coach, only to be ridiculed and driven away. Then he meets a poor kung fu master out on the streets and, after seeing what incredible leg power the fellow has, comes up with the crazy idea of forming a soccer team of kung fu masters. Mighty Steel Leg Sing (Stephen Chow), who had been looking for a way to spread kung fu teachings among more of the populace, quickly seeks out his former Shaolin brothers, none of whom are interested - at first. Eventually, the new dream team is assembled. Theres Iron Shirt Tin, Iron Head, a very hefty Light Weight, Lightning Hands, and Hooking Leg (each of them named after his particular kung fu specialty). They dont know the first thing about soccer, and Golden Leg has a time trying to coach them up in time to enter the big, upcoming soccer tournament. Just when everything appears lost, the guys kung fu powers are reawakened, and its Game On from that point on. They arent exactly intimidating when they come out in their yellow bathrobes, each one of them less athletic-looking than the next, but its immediately obvious that these guys, with their high-flying, ball-screeching skills, are a force to be reckoned with. They are most definitely a sight to see.
Theres one more kung fu master in town, a shy young woman named Mui (Zhao Wei) who has no self-confidence and works making sticky buns (using kung fu, of course). Might Steel Leg Sing befriends her, and theres a weird kind of romance between the two, but their weird relationship is sort of a weak spot in the story - although Mui herself is certainly a character of great importance. The film is really just about absurdly unreal kung fu soccer moves on (and above) the field and their culmination in the championship game between Team Evil and our beloved Shaolin Soccer Team. Hung, never above cheating, manages to put a team on the field that can actually outmatch the seemingly invincible kung fu soccer team, making it a contest unlike any youve ever seen before. CGI effects aplenty accompany each and every move on the field, serious injuries abound, and the enthusiastic crowd loves every minute of it. Youll see soccer play that even Pele could not have dreamed of (largely because its all physically impossible) in this ultimate battle of good and evil. Theres never really much doubt about how things will end, but that doesnt take away from any of the zany super-soccer special effects that make this the most exciting soccer game in history.
Shaolin Soccer is funny by design, and the key to making such a film is to go all out with the special effects. Thats exactly what Stephen Chow does in this hilarious blend of soccer, kung fu, and comedy. Even when it takes on a distinctly cartoonish air, Shaolin Soccer proves more entertaining by the moment. With its constant humor and spectacular special effects, the film all but guarantees that a good time will be had by all.
by: spriforever On: 2005-12-03
You know what? This movie will trip you out.
Lets get into it...
Years ago, a big time young soccer player was duped into throwing a game by his teammate. That soccer player became a dumb cripple named "Golden Leg" while the teammate made a great name for himself. All of their lives, the Teammate would triumph over the crippled Golden Leg.
Fast-forward.
Golden Leg meets a young kung fu artist. He sees vast potential in this young man. First the young man wants to enlist Golden Leg as his student. But Golden Leg feels the futures of glory somehow. And as being a poor street salesman is for the birds, eventually, the kung fu artist becomes Golden Legs apprentice instead.
The visuals are awesome.
Golden Leg finds a great soccer tournament. He feels that the kung fu artist would be a perfect addition to his future team. They hook up and what transpires next is pretty much anything BUT soccer. The premise is the same, but all the real rules go away so as to cater to the phenomenal abilities of the players. And these are really awesome effects.
The best thing about the film is that early on, the team becomes SUPERHUMAN. Really, these guys take out other teams like its all a joke. I loved that! Weve seen underdog films like Rocky and Bad News Bears a thousand times but seeing a team go in as being the upper hand is a nice change of pace. Sure, they eventually have their obstacles, but weve seen the big parts already. And it wont tarnish the film, I swear. Really, this film is great!
There is a really tender love between the janitor guy and an "ugly" girl that deserves mention.
BEST THING ABOUT THE MOVIE? the goalie is incredibly nice.
SEE THIS MOVIE!
by: sharky_87 On: 2005-11-05
I remember seeing this on a movie channel down in BC. I thought it was OK, but then I rented the DVD, watched the chinese version (112 minutes) and it was wayyyyy better.
STORY: A man named Sing (Chow) is a kung-fu master. He meets a soccer coach, who is not satisfied by his Kung-fu techniques. Then, Sing meets a girl, and gets his relatives together to play a game of kung-fu soccer!
THOUGHTS: I really loved the film. Excellent, exciting, fun, and it makes "Slap Shot" look like the worst movie ever. I loved it!
So if you like Kung-fu and sports, or if you liked Kung-Fu Hustle, Youll love this movie!
On: 2005-10-30
This movie is funny and never stops from being entertaining. I laughed the whole way through. The story isnt want i remember as much as the jokes and the way over-the-top action. They kung-fu action gets a little silly at times instead of amazing, but I can forgive that since this movie has a light hearted theme and great cast including zhou wei(so close, warriors of heaven and earth) who plays a cinderella-type girl who is always over looked. This movie isnt perfect, but it is a great movie for people who like comedies, kung-fu movies, and sports movies.
On: 2005-10-29
This movie is HILARIOUS!
Its the first movie out of HongKong that actually had decent computer effects AND a storyline. And just for that its worth a spot on everyones shelf ;-D
But seriously, Stephen chows stuff never stops impressing me. His movies always have his singature level of humor and entertainment. And whats best is his artistic blend of comedy with drama. You can be laughing your head off in one second and be totally taken away by deep profound emotions in the next. And yet you wont feel like youve just changed channels or something.
Shaolin soccer is definitely up on his "best to date" list.
by: dave3679 On: 2005-10-18
Director-star Stephen Chow is one of the most refreshingly original artists in film today between his work here and in "Kung Fu Hustle". He borrows from American films as well as Eastern cinema but adds enough of his own unique touches to distinguish himself from other filmmakers. The film carries on the tradition of great sports films like "Rocky" and "The Bad News Bears" but adds martial arts into the mix. Theres also a touching love story here that doesnt bog down the proceedings. Chow is a greatly imaginative visualist and the film contains any number of hilarious sight gags. Chow also provides great verbal dialogue if the subtitles can be trusted. I didnt see this film on its initial run because I found soccer as much of an anethma as baseball is to overseas audiences. Dont let that be a turn-off because this movie is alot of fun.
by: mynicknamewasalreadytaken On: 2005-10-16
Turned off by the title? Martial arts plus soccer... can it get any duller?! That was basically my reaction when this movie came out. I couldnt even take enough interest in it to even dismiss it from my mind. It just went in one ear and out the other, and I never thought of it again.
Everyone out there whos actually WATCHED this movie is now thinking what a fool I was. And let me tell you, so am I.
Anybody out there who enjoys martial arts... seriously... get this movie. Get this movie and Kung Fu Hustle. Youve never seen anything like this stuff. Wild doesnt begin to describe it.
And Stephen Chow: make as many movies as you can. Cant wait for the next one.
On: 2005-10-15
I was out with some buddies this past Tuesday and, for some reason, the talk turned to what was the worst and the best comic book movie. I maintain that the best is Unbreakable, but the others wanted to limit the selection to movies that were adaptations of comics rather than simply movies that captured the underlying myths and tropes of the genre (which, typically, means superheroes, at least in the U.S.). The best adaptation that I know of is probably Spiderman, although X-Men is very close. I personally despise Burtons Batman. Although I understand my friend Matt Cutters argument that it is Burtons Batman, I cant get over the problem that he allows actors to step outside of the roles they are supposed to be playing, making it as much of a wink-and-a-nod to the meta set rather than a faithful adaptation. I havent seen Nolans Batman Begins (its in my netflix queue though), although Ive heard good things about it, nor have I seen Sin City. Hellboy did a great job of capturing the look and feel of the comic that it was drawn from, but I just didnt think it was all that good of a movie.
Stephen Chows Shaolin Soccer
Which brings us to Shaolin Soccer, which would have my vote for the best movie adapted from a manga, if only it had been. Instead, trivia has it that creator and star Stephen Chow had been inspired by an animated television series on soccer called "Captain Tsubasa," which may, for all I know, have been based on a manga series. Whatever, the visual effects and broad humor of the movie perfectly capture the style of manga, from the exaggerated facial expressions that Chow and his co-stars make, to the way that the soccer ball tears up the ground and grass and can blowback people in its power. The best scene, by far, is the climatic goal defense, where Mui adapts a kung fu stance and a wavering yin/yang symbol appears in the air before her while the attacking player has an evil demon in the air above him that he draws into the ball itself, which then flies through the air so fast that it becomes a fireball.
I found the movie much funnier than J did, and Im not sure exactly why. Perhaps its because Im more familiar with manga and the style of humor that the movie used, which is more disjointed than a Western comedy, with flights of imagination that rival Amelie in their elaborateness (such as the break into a dance sequence straight out of a music video early on). The violence was much more graphic here, as well, although its (I have to say it) "comic book violence" where no one is hurt for very long, unless it is necessary for the plot.
On: 2005-10-14
A silly movie on martial arts masters playing soccer with lots of action. Give it five stars if you like Kung Fu Hustle or martials arts classics.
On: 2005-10-09
At first I couldnt believe that my son was recommending this movie to me. It really moved slowly at first during the first half. That is with the exception of the woman making Chinese buns using Kung Fu. I selected the Chinese version. Thats the best way I feel to see a movie in its original language with subtitles. I didnt watch any more that day and came to it fresh the next day. I found it highly entertaining and would recommend this movie.
On: 2005-10-01
My first encounter with Stephen Chows work was "Kung Fu Hustle". I laughed so hard I literally cramped up and had to leave the theatre to recover. I was hooked. So I was anxious to see this movie as I had heard it was good. If you appreciate quirky, then you will find this movie to be quite entertaining. My one suggestion is that you dont waste your time on the sanitized US version. Stick with the original Chinese which is somewhat longer and just a bit more complex because of the the material that remains intact.
On: 2005-08-24
A fallen soccer hero finds a undiscovered talent in "Sing" a Kung Fu master who works collecting cans for a living. Sing finds all of his Kung Fu Master brothers and eventually they form a football team that would scare the best defences in the world today using their newly taught football skills. A great fun comedy with a refreshing angle, a must for those who have a soft spot for martial arts and football, even a little romance for the ladies, Suitable for children aswell, its like Matrix meets Bruce Lee, the goalie is a ringer. I love this film.
On: 2005-08-23
This is a great film most ppl who watched it would agree... stephen chow is an extraordinary person in the sense he co-wrote/director/produced/acted in film that is funny, touching, action packed/ heart warming film that has well thought out characters and incredible special effects... if you havent watched it go get it its worth it in everyway...
wow that was a really badly structured sentence any i am tired..
I give 5/5 stars
by: hiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii On: 2005-08-13
This is a comedy that I only find Wedding Crashers and maybe Old School to beat. This is chinese fun that most american comedies dont stand a chance against. One thing that this movie also has besides the nonstop laughs is the amazing visuals. From the martial arts scenes to the hilarious soccer scenes, the visuals are brilliant!
Everyone already talked about the plot but Ill mention it anyway. The movies about an old man who used to be a soccer star until his leg was broken, who forms a soccer team with a bunch of kung fu masters.
This movie has nonstop hilarious moments which Ill let you discover on your own. Even minor things like the fact that the kung fu team is beating another team 40-0 is hilarious.
Well, I recommend buying this gem because it will make you laugh your head off and humor like this is impossible to find in american movies.
On: 2005-08-12
This was a real good movie; funny and thought provoking at the same time with some great effects & Kung Fu...The actors were real good also.
Hot Tip: Watch the Original Chinese Version instead of the dumbed down U.S.Theatrical version...the meaning of the movie is slightly altered by a crucial scene at the start of the original version.
On: 2005-08-11
This was a real good movie; funny and thought provoking at the same time with some great effects & Kung Fu...The actors were real good also.
Hot Tip: Watch the Original Chinese Version instead of the dumbed down U.S.Theatrical version...the meaning of the movie is slightly altered by a crucial scene at the start of the original version.
On: 2005-08-08
The movie reminds me of silly Japanese comics I had read as a child in Japan. I find it interesting to see the combination of special effect and silly story that were usually seen only in animation or comics. I want to warn you that the silliness is intense. This movie can be described as a STUPID movie, but since it is entertaining. I wonder if the movie was intended to children as its content is very silly to me.
On: 2005-07-23
The chopped-up American-release version is pleasant enough, but the real treasure is the original version. The subtitles often hint at what is actually meant, with the odd word choices making it somehow more entertaining, while Chow and co. often dont need much translation. Vicki Zhao is a delight to watch, and the film, like so many of Steven Chows, has a feel very similar to the silent slapsticks of the Buster Keaton/Charlie Chaplin. The story line is not too different from other Chow movies, although in this one hes pretty likeable from the beginning. The hurt woman/healing man rags-to-riches romance still works, and there is considerably less blood, but just as much humor. This is undoubtedly the best Chow movie for American audiences to start with.
On: 2005-07-22
The chopped-up American-release version is pleasant enough, but the real treasure is the original version. The subtitles often hint at what is actually meant, with the odd word choices making it somehow more entertaining, while Chow and co. often dont need much translation. Vicki Zhao is a delight to watch, and the film, like so many of Steven Chows, has a feel very similar to the silent slapsticks of the Buster Keaton/Charlie Chaplin. The story line is not too different from other Chow movies, although in this one hes pretty likeable from the beginning. The hurt woman/healing man rags-to-riches romance still works, and there is considerably less blood, but just as much humor. This is undoubtedly the best Chow movie for American audiences to start with.
On: 2005-07-19
This movie was like a dream came true, a Captain Tsubasa live! I couldnt believe how well the special effects were used to render the action sequences. Even seeing the bonuses explaining out how the effects were made up, I was still amazed.
Stephen Chow really has a universal sense of humour, as well as a feeling for narrating pace, which makes the movie easy to follow. Music, acting, picture quality, everything blends into a perfect entertainment!
On: 2005-07-08
Director Stephen Chow plays a down on his luck Shaolin monk turned street bum named Sing in the chinese soccer version of Ladybugs, Major league, Bad News Bears and other movies where mitfits can become winners against an evil opponent.
The story actually starts off with a tournament 20 years earlier with a confrontation between teammates "Golden Leg" Fung and Hung. Fung is the arrogant hero that misses the free kick at a crucial game and is attacked by the crowd. 20 years later Hung is now the boss of a National Soccer tournament and Fung is his lackey that is soon fired.
Fung and Sing meet and at first Fung doesnt see the purpose of integrating Shaolin Kung Fu into a soccer tournament, but after seeing him in action against a group of thugs, he quickly changes his mind. Sing gathers his usual suspects, a group of ex-shaolin monks that have moved on with their life. There is a Bruce Lee lookalike that is umemployed, a stock broker who can suck a ball into his lap, a huge 200 lb grocery stock boy who can jump 50 feet at a time, a janitor who can breakdance with a soccer ball and a nightclub lackey who has an iron head, which comes in handy since the owner always seems to be smashing a bottle over his head for his incompetence.
The group enter the National Soccer tournament and at first practice, they suck. However, as they improve, they become the team to beat and Hung is getting worried that his Steroid/Chemical enhanced team wont be up to par to win the $1M prize. More importantly, will Sings goal to make Shaolin Kung Fu more famous succeed?
As you can see, the plot of this movie is secondary to each individual scene. As vignettes, this movie does very well. Stephen Chow is charismatic as Sing and his love interest Mui is also appropriately meek. However, the relationship is flawed from the beginning. There is chemistry spart between them, and Chow has to work on it real hard in order to make it work.
There are other comedic points that seem strange to Western Audiences. The cross dressing hair-dresser scene seems completely out of place, as is the fact that Mui accepts mid-80s shoulder pad fashion as "in". To someone whos been to Hong Kong, that just doesnt make sense. It also doesnt make sense for two soccer players (Karen Mok and Cecillia Cheung) to be wearing moustaches and beards, but maybe thats a cultural thing.
The SFX is also hit and miss. Of course, this is a lower budget movies, so some scenes, especially to do with bodies flying through the air, dont work and look really fake. However, some other scenes, especially during the soccer games are not so bad and actually exciting to watch. The final game is also the pinnacle of the movie, because they actually meet their match against guys straight out of the "Universal Soldier" movies.
It is a good movie that appeals to Eastern tastes more than anything and while Miramax seems to have bought the international rights to this movie, I dont see it having wide appeal to non-Asian audiences (especially to those people who couldnt accept the movie "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon"). However, to me, I thought it was a pleasing timewaster....Rating: C
On: 2005-06-24
I thought this was gonnah be serious monks playing soccer or something, but it turned out it is a movie using the idea. A soccer star in the 80s has become a bum and he finds out his X teammate who is coaching the #1 team now was behind it all... he eventualy gets people trained in Kung-Fu to be his team to take to a tournament, with some persasian and practice they use there martial arts training and incorporate it into the game of soccer to compete for a million dollar prize, a long the way is side storys of love, respect, honor and goofy comedy.
The acting is way over the top, but its not unbareabull, its supposed to be over the top and fun.. the CGI effects are over the top aswell, but it adds to the comedy.
Overall its quite a suprising family film, you dont have to be into martial arts to enjoy this film, and you dont have to like soccer either... its just all in good fun and worthy of a rental for a familly night in.... it kind of is an over the top Soccer version of the Harlem Globetrotters.
by: bigmansco On: 2005-06-19
And thats exaclty what this game of soccer is. in any other parts of the world, youd see people fight hard with whistles blowing if hostility is present. But here its agenst the rules to be a class A chump. Well on third thought they dont care, theyll let you find out the hard way by letting the other team give you a humiliating beatdown.
The story starts with Golden Leg(Man Tat Ng) Who was famus until he made a big mistake. While depressed he ran into Sing(Stephen Chow) who told him how useful Shaolin is in multiple ways. This guy loves sholin so much, he falls for a not-so attractive employee for a steam bun store(Vicki Zhao Wei, who in reality isnt ugly(dang makeup) but very very cute). And when it is interjected that Shaolin can be used for soccer, thats when the parterner ship between Golden Leg, and Sing expandes to more friends, to go to the prestigious tournament, shoot for $1,000,000, and to revive the Golden Legs name, and get the right word of Shaolin around. But in order to acomplish this, they must man up to hand out whoopings, or get stomped.
This movie has very creative ways of making comedy. Some things start a laugh by making you say what the fudge?(Like when everyone was dancing at the steam-bun stand, and when Sing was visualizing a Saving Private Ryan theeme while in the test game) They have so much comedy in this film, from horrible Chareokee singers, to a bald girl getting called E.T.(Well what was she thinking) The special effects are fake looking but the way its used is just for-jorkin hillarious.(Like when guys fly around after getting hit)
Shaolin Soccer is an exellent film by Stephen Chow, the directer, wrtiter and the star.(Alot, but not to much for one man) This film is well done, and thank God there was the oringinal Chinese unrated version on the DVD. Man America cut the crap out of this movie when I saw it on starz. Anywho, this should be watched by people who enjoy soccer, comedy, or Asian cinema. Fans of Stephen Chow, and Vicki Zhao Wei would definitly love this comedy for the family.
On: 2005-05-17
I have been going ape shizzy over this hilarious new half hour tv show that I have been recording off of that new tv network made for Asian Americans called "AZN"( get it?), because the episodes fit perfectly onto my PSP.
I am not sure if everyone can get this channel, but you can hunt it down through the tv channel guide at yahoo, or go to their website at azntv.com, but anyway...
When I showed my friend the "Kung Faux" episodes, she recommended that I check out the "shaolin Soccer" dvd, which I just picked up and I have to say that now I am in heaven because Amazon recommended that I also buy the uncensored version of the "Kung Faux" dvd that I didnt even know was out, which I also did and now I am hooked.
These two dvds have been the best money that I have spent in years! I have watched them both a thousand times and still laugh every time I watch them, now I am back to order more Steven Chow dvds and I cant wait for more uncensored versions of the "Kung Faux" dvds to come out because these guys cant be beat.
You can not go wrong with these titles. They are like some kind of Ancient Chinese Secret medicine or something the way they make me feel after every time I watch them. Dang they are good !!!
On: 2005-05-03
It was a regular trip to the movie store. I scanned the racks checking to see if anything good might pop up. My eyes halted on "Shaolin Soccer". I scowled and said, "Pff...Shaooolin Socccer?" Like I was asking a remedial child his name. I read the slogan, "Get ready to kick some grass!" By this time I was already on the other side of the store, guessing that it was probably a movie about a kid who learns Kung Fu from an old Shaolin Monk which then helps him, after being a stupid loser for so long, become a champion soccer player and get the girl and his dads respect.
I guess I have an over-active imagination but thats beside the point. A couple of months later, scanning the menu of my TV what do I see? Shaolin Soccer...I say to myself, "Ugh, let me see how stupid this really is". The first thing I see is people breaking into song and dancing for absolutely no apparent reason, and then being scorned and asked why they were singing.
I slowly fell in love with the movie and it is now one of my favorite movies of all time. There is wonderfully beautiful martial arts, hilarious comedy, and a creative plot with a moral side-story.
Its about old Kung Fu master friends who have grown up and lost their talent playing soccer. Trust me, its a lot better than it sounds. Just give it a shot, watch it with dubbing because its actually much more funny with the dubbing.
On: 2005-03-09
After reading reviews about this film and missing the chance to see it on the big screen, I was finally able to rent this and was not disappointed. This film does not take itself seriosly and neither should the viewer. Lots of scenes that will make you go "what the...?" Particularly involving the one shaolin brother who loves eating too much and the egg that is used to help his soccer training. Loved it and will see it again!
On: 2005-03-08
After reading reviews about this film and missing the chance to see it on the big screen, I was finally able to rent this and was not disappointed. This film does not take itself seriosly and neither should the viewer. Lots of scenes that will make you go "what the...?" Particularly involving the one shaolin brother who loves eating too much and the egg that is used to help his soccer training. Loved it and will see it again!
On: 2005-03-07
For those who may be familiar with Steven Chow, the fun of watching this movie will be no surprise. For those less familiar with the Chinese superstars films, he has been described as the heir apparent to Jackie Chan in terms of slapstickish martial arts comedy. Admittedly, for those who are looking for the sort of stunts that Chan has become famous for they might be somewhat disappointed. CGI is very apparent throughout the movie, although not overwhelmingly so. Chows skewering of pop culture in his quest to find a way to make money out of being a Shaolin Monk in the modern world, however, by far overshadows the special effects and places this comedy firmly in a catagory of its own. And for those who can overlook the fact that CGI is used for some of the stunts and enjoy the impossible feats of Chow and his "brothers" (such as the Matrix-esque human-pinball fight scene behind the brick wall and the climactic final match), an enjoyable evening of laughs should ensue. Being an import, though, some of the translations seen in the subtitles can be, shall we say, creative. Also, dont miss the deleted scenes, particularly the huge dance number in the streets of China.
On: 2005-02-18
I first rented this movie and it was so good. I like the idea of competition and the action choreography and martial arts/kung fu acts are so amazing. A lot better than some of the american action-comedy movies. Aside from the coolest martial art moves, it was soooo funnny!Now, I have my own DVD and I have also bought several DVDs of Stephen Chow! HE ROCKS! Im looking forward to watch his new movie, KungFu Hustle. Ill definitely watch it.
On: 2005-02-12
My impression of this movie was not a comedy, but interesting, like pictures of space from NASA. If you have ever fantasied about the ultimate sports team, this movie hits the target. Some scenes are ridiculous --- launching a soccer ball with cannon force from ones abdomen. I wished for more "real" martial arts mixed with soccer, but the extemes have a place in such a movie/fantasy. The children and I both enjoyed the movie, but after watching it twice, we skip all the talk and watch only the training and soccer scenes.
by: andynjen On: 2005-02-09
What a wonderful sports film. STOP, read that line one more time. I ask you to do this because you will probably never see this again.
This was a sports film, for me to say that it wasnt would be a bold faced lie. This had all the characteristics of the modern Hollywood sports film, but what made it stand out and enjoyable is that it did not take itself seriously ... AND ... it had some amazing CGI action sequences. I recently watched a film called Equilibrium where it was mentioned that it could rival the popularity of The Matrix, well I would have to say that perhaps this film, Siu lam juk kau, would probably do more in toppling the king of bullet-time cinematography than Equilibrium would. I was impressed from the beginning till the end of this movie. The characters were all animated and individual in their own way. There was time used to set them up and learn about each of them. This wasnt one of those films where you spent most of your time with one of the characters then never really got to know the rest of them ... you knew them all and couldnt wait to see what they were going to bring to the table next. Hong Kong has crafted a spectacular film here. They have taken the popularity of the bullet-time effect and applied it to a genre that definitely needed a face-lift. I am surprised that America wasnt the first to do this, but we are a nation that loves the standard sports film, so why change what we love. PWFSSSST. We are so lazy sometimes.
Siu lam juk kau tells a spectacular story coupled with some amazing graphics to create a story about love, teamwork, and superpowers. I also enjoyed the fact that this film also tried to say that kung-fu is not an old topic, that it can and should still be used in society today. When we think of the martial arts films (and physical aspect), we see them as a very old and dated genre. Well, let me be the first to say that they are coming back, and coming back with a vengeance. I enjoyed the fact that this was a revenge film. So many of our kung-fu films are revenge films, I was happy to see that this one was not far off. This film used techniques that I have not seen used in any other films. They took the old, skillful ways of the dated kung-fu film, added the work of bullet-time, and added the sports flare to it to create Siu lam juk kau. It had us laughing, it kept us based in reality, and it focused my attention to the screen for the entire film (a task that no other sports film has been able to do). I think that by having your star also direct it (directed and starred Stephen Chow) it builds upon a sense of comfortability with the story. Chow is a master of slapstick, yet seldom overdoes the silliness, choosing carefully timed gags and meticulously mounted visual construction over slapdash comedy. The film is also no stranger to the bizarre, with Chows multiple homages to Steven Spielberg, and a weird egg gag that Im honestly shocked still remains the American cut of the picture.
Overall, Siu lam juk kau is a amazing combination of comedy, action, romance, and dazzling soccer footage, forming an irresistible package to those looking for something they havent seen before. We see that it is a personal story that everyone is having fun being a part of. That also helped this film ... the characters really wanted to be in this film and it shined like the North Star through our screen. The dubbing (which seemed off a couple times) only added delight to this film. Chows Siu lam juk kau, is and will always be breathtaking.
Grade: ***** out of *****
 On: 2005-02-06
I tried, really I did. I managed to sit through 52 minutes and 14 seconds of this movie before I just couldnt force myself to watch anymore.
It started out really promising, and I was getting into it, thinking if it started out OK it might just get better as time went on. It really had the potential to be hysterical, but it just got more and more absurd, and I was no longer amused.
Even my husband, who was certain beyond all doubt that he would love it, was begging me to turn it off.
Sorry if some of you will feel the need to slam me for this, but Im just being honest. I hated this movie. I liked the first 10-15 minutes, and then I just HATED it. Maybe I should watch the dubbed version instead of the subtitles... or maybe I shouldnt waste any money. I rented this with a free rental coupon, and its a good thing, cause I would have been pretty ticked to have lost money AND 52 minutes of my life.
On: 2005-02-05
I tried, really I did. I managed to sit through 52 minutes and 14 seconds of this movie before I just couldnt force myself to watch anymore.
It started out really promising, and I was getting into it, thinking if it started out OK it might just get better as time went on. It really had the potential to be hysterical, but it just got more and more absurd, and I was no longer amused.
Even my husband, who was certain beyond all doubt that he would love it, was begging me to turn it off.
Sorry if some of you will feel the need to slam me for this, but Im just being honest. I hated this movie. I liked the first 10-15 minutes, and then I just HATED it. Maybe I should watch the dubbed version instead of the subtitles... or maybe I shouldnt waste any money. I rented this with a free rental coupon, and its a good thing, cause I would have been pretty ticked to have lost money AND 52 minutes of my life.
On: 2005-02-04
This movie isnt your typical family movie but wow...is it ever a hoot! Blending Kung Fu, soccer and more than a bit of mysticism into a perfect (and hilarious) action movie.
Basic plot: Former soccer champ, poor and disdained, discovers a guy with real potential. From there they form a team and try to win a championship and achieve fame and glory.
But describing the basic plot is like trying to describe the color "blue" to someone who cant see colors. It is the subtleties, humor and just plain weirdness of this one that make it a standout! Dont expect realism but a blend of fantasy and wish fulfillment...and, oh yes, soccer like it has NEVER been played before.
by: closet-monster On: 2005-01-28
This movie is great! Yes... its very silly, but its supposed to be! I guess some hoity-toity reviewers are too smug to enjoy a lighthearted comedy like this. Its a shame. Why be serious all the time? Real life is so serious anyways. Thats why people enjoy these kind of movies. Oh well.
Anyways... I found myself giggling about this movie, just thinking about certain scenes, all day the very next day. This movie has some decent special effects, funny dialogues, and some crazy characters. All in all, this movie is definatley worth checking out. :)
On: 2005-01-20
Most are rating this movie very highly. Anyone who dares to rate it poorly seems to be getting very poor reactions. There is both the U.S. theatrical version and the original version. The original version I liked better. The movie is well done visually. I just dont care for the silliness. I couldnt get past eighteen minutes of watching the film. Normally, I have a lot of patience, and I have been known to sit through a film for almost two hours, which I wasnt enjoying that much, to have it turn around with an ending that saved the whole movie for me. With this one, I dont care. For those of you who like silly movies--go for it. Its good as far as silly movies go. As for myself, Id rather spend my time watching something else.
On: 2005-01-01
Oh, wow... I just saw this movie tonight, and from about five minutes in, I couldnt stop laughing. At one point, I fell off the couch, laughing, with tears streaming from my eyes.
Seriously. I havent laughed this much during a movie since... since... never. Kung Fu soccer!!! Just watch it, its absolutely, wonderfully silly and hilarious.
On: 2004-12-23
first off, giving this movie 5 stars does not mean its on par with "the godfather" or anything like that. but for what it is, this movie kicks butt. the humor in the movie is offbeat and strange but very funny. also, the visual effects are great. but the thing i really like about this movie is that it doesnt take itself seriously at all and is just loads of fun.
p.s....if youre one who likes to toke and watch a flick, this is one you should get
On: 2004-12-22
first off, giving this movie 5 stars does not mean its on par with "the godfather" or anything like that. but for what it is, this movie kicks butt. the humor in the movie is offbeat and strange but very funny. also, the visual effects are great. but the thing i really like about this movie is that it doesnt take itself seriously at all and is just loads of fun.
p.s....if youre one who likes to toke and watch a flick, this is one you should get
by: Anonymous On: 2004-12-21
This movie is so bad I dont have the slightest idea why so many people are giving it 5 stars. The jokes are outdated and EXTREMLY corny. So um on the reality scale it gets 0 out of 100000000000000000000000. A normal guy kicks the ball and tries to score the goalie is scared out of his little brain......goalkeepers shouldnt be afraid of the ball they need to protect it not to get scared. Anyway when he tries to block it by standing there like a idiot it hits him i wonder why and it blows all his clothes off hahahaha funny....not. In the circumstances where they do their jokes it is entirely unappropriate. Yeh, movies can go out the real world a little but this is crazy. Unless you are a 40 person who lives with their mother, you have no reason to be seeing this.
On: 2004-12-20
This movie is so bad I dont have the slightest idea why so many people are giving it 5 stars. The jokes are outdated and EXTREMLY corny. So um on the reality scale it gets 0 out of 100000000000000000000000. A normal guy kicks the ball and tries to score the goalie is scared out of his little brain......goalkeepers shouldnt be afraid of the ball they need to protect it not to get scared. Anyway when he tries to block it by standing there like a idiot it hits him i wonder why and it blows all his clothes off hahahaha funny....not. In the circumstances where they do their jokes it is entirely unappropriate. Yeh, movies can go out the real world a little but this is crazy. Unless you are a 40 person who lives with their mother, you have no reason to be seeing this.
On: 2004-11-29
I rented and watched the original Chinese version. Five minutes before I rented this movie, I heard the video store clerk telling a customer next to us that this was the worst movie hed ever seen. This is an important fact. Because for anyone without my kind of sense of humor, - which is to say, a love of spoof, parody and utter nonsense - this movie just might be too stupid to enjoy. All of that aside, I cannot remember laughing out loud this hard in the grip of a movie in years!
Folks, this is parody at its best... taking anything even remotely serious about kung-fu movies and turning it into utter comic gold. The best way I can compare this movie would be to call it the "Airplane" or "Top Secret" of kung-fu movies. The actors are hilarious. This is more than a slapstick - its the dialogue that really pushes it over the edge! The cgi animation is so over-the-top, its impossible to care enough to be put off. Everything is perfectly preposterous, out of line and bizarre. And so, I have to say, its as if they made this movie just for me.
I loved it. Every single ridiculous moment.
by: mr_low_price_seller On: 2004-11-11
Thanks goodness I rented this movie instead of buying it. It is so stupid. The characters over-exaggerate their emotions of sadness and joy, but not in a funny way.
A couple of times during the movie, the characters start to sing and dance, as if this were a musical.
Another reviewer made the mistake of comparing this to the movie Kung Pow. I own Kung Pow and I can honestly say that it is 100 times better than Shaolin Soccer.
On: 2004-11-05
Combining kung fu mysticism with soccer, sprinkled with sight gags and spoofs from popular Hollywood and Hong Kong movies, Shaolin Soccer is a very enjoyable movie. Stephen Chow leads a very funny ensemble cast which includes a deglamorized Zhao Wei.
Sure, the plot is well within the Bad News Bears/Replacements genre but what makes it unpredictable are the off-the-wall humor and overall tongue-in-cheek treatment of the director.
If you see this on DVD, buy it. Because one viewing isnt enough to capture all the hilarious scenes like the Face/Off like entry of the team members on the rooftop, the musical number where pedestrians join the action and acts as if nothing happened when its over, and of course, the game antics of the two rivals.
A big hit here in Asia, this is probably the most underexposed comedy in the US. Whether youre a soccer, kung-fu or comedy fan or not, youll have a kickin good time with Shaolin Soccer.
On: 2004-10-14
"Shaolin Soccer" is high on the list of my favorite Chinese-language movies. I had no idea that it would be so good when I bought it. It had been a while since I had seen a movie that I found so original--certain scenes blew me away to say the least. I took very little of the movie seriously as the title and the first scenes indicated that this movie is supposed to be viewed as a light-hearted farce. This movie will take you for a ride if you let it. Though some people, understandably, simply wont "get" it, the humor is fairly universal--largely physical comedy and slap-stick gags. "Shaolin Soccer" was the first Stephen Chow movie that I watched and it made me seek out more of his films. If you like this movie, and if you do not mind subtitles, try to get your hands on a copy of Stephen Chows equally irreverant "God of Cookery".
On: 2004-10-14
One of our children saw an ad for this movie on TV and was intrigued because it sort of resembled Kung Pow by Steve Odekerk. We obtained a copy and were delighted. Shaolin Soccer is fresh, funny and the special effects are great; it was better than Kung Pow and not nearly as cheesy. Stephen Chow spoofs films from the Matrix to Kill Bill in his own inimitable Chinese way. The story takes place in Asia, where main character Sing leaves his shaolin temple to seek his way in the world, specifically in the world of soccer. His foot of steel and bad shoes leave indelible impressions on those he meets---and beats---along his journey to the world cup games. He unwittingly captures the heart of a young woman and remains blissfully ignorant of her attraction to him, even when she repairs his tattered shoes with cute little Japanese animal stickers and patches. The bad guys crop up predictably enough, but are nasty and its great to see them gloat first and lose later. The best scenes involve the other shaolin brothers when they emerge from their spititual seclusion to join Sing in his quest for a championship. Our family really enjoyed this movie and are glad we made the investment to own it. Its a real pity that the film never made it big in the USA. Obscure or not, Shaloin Soccer is a real treat of a genre comedy and will no doubt develop its own richly deserved cult following.
On: 2004-10-13
"Shaolin Soccer" is high on the list of my favorite Chinese-language movies. I had no idea that it would be so good when I bought it. It had been a while since I had seen a movie that I found so original--certain scenes blew me away to say the least. I took very little of the movie seriously as the title and the first scenes indicated that this movie is supposed to be viewed as a light-hearted farce. This movie will take you for a ride if you let it. Though some people, understandably, simply wont "get" it, the humor is fairly universal--largely physical comedy and slap-stick gags. "Shaolin Soccer" was the first Stephen Chow movie that I watched and it made me seek out more of his films. If you like this movie, and if you do not mind subtitles, try to get your hands on a copy of Stephen Chows equally irreverant "God of Cookery".
On: 2004-10-13
One of our children saw an ad for this movie on TV and was intrigued because it sort of resembled Kung Pow by Steve Odekerk. We obtained a copy and were delighted. Shaolin Soccer is fresh, funny and the special effects are great; it was better than Kung Pow and not nearly as cheesy. Stephen Chow spoofs films from the Matrix to Kill Bill in his own inimitable Chinese way. The story takes place in Asia, where main character Sing leaves his shaolin temple to seek his way in the world, specifically in the world of soccer. His foot of steel and bad shoes leave indelible impressions on those he meets---and beats---along his journey to the world cup games. He unwittingly captures the heart of a young woman and remains blissfully ignorant of her attraction to him, even when she repairs his tattered shoes with cute little Japanese animal stickers and patches. The bad guys crop up predictably enough, but are nasty and its great to see them gloat first and lose later. The best scenes involve the other shaolin brothers when they emerge from their spititual seclusion to join Sing in his quest for a championship. Our family really enjoyed this movie and are glad we made the investment to own it. Its a real pity that the film never made it big in the USA. Obscure or not, Shaloin Soccer is a real treat of a genre comedy and will no doubt develop its own richly deserved cult following.
by: chicoer2003 On: 2004-10-05
Shaolin Soccer is a pleasant chinese movie. It doesnt take it self seriously and comes off as a really funny and enjoyable movie.
On: 2004-09-22
First off, the movie is about an ex-soccer player--who was permanently wounded when he was younger--that wants to coach his own soccer team. He finds an enthusiastic guy whos alias is Steel Leg; this guy is one of five Shaolin Kung Fu students who really wants to incorporate what they learned with a popular thing in order to make it popular. The main plot focuses on getting the team together then entering a championship thats worth $1 million to them if they win.
What was so great about Shaolin Soccer is that the story was captivating. You just are pulled into it. Theres humor, drama, and even a drop of romance. The special effects were amazing--not in a new way, but how uniquely they used it (Imagine using The Matrix type of FX in a comedy). The comedy was varied: satirical, physical, stupid, etc. Theres even a few short song numbers and one dance number (copied, respectively, from MJs "Thriller"). There are wonderful camera angles and such, too.
Of course, it wasnt perfect. Some of the editing was bad, and a few gags were repetitious. The US version seemed to do well for those parts, but they also took out some very wonderful gags that only make the Chinese version better. Since I mention the US version Id like to say this: the dubbing is like usual dubbed Chinese films (you wont like it as much). Also, only watch it if youre in the mood to compare the two versions--I watched both versions back to back. Another thing, and its more to do with the dvd, is that the Chinese versions sections that are cut out of the US version arent dubbed (i.e. scene of "explosion" to dance where the guy talks, but no words are up to hear it).
Overall, I loved this movie.
+ Wonderful special effects and action
+ Encapturing story
+ Awesome variety of humor
+ Beautiful cinematography
- A few unneeded repetitious gags
- Chinese version edited too little (USs edited too much)
? Where are the captions?
? What, no extras besides both editions?
Closing thoughts: If you enjoyed the creativity of Hero or Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, but thought either the story lacked or the action was uninteresting, youll definitely find an interest in Shaolin Soccer. You should at least view it once whenever you get the chance. Its definitely worth buying even if there are no extras on it. 4.9/5__(Movie) 4.6/5__(Dvd)
On: 2004-09-18
yeah, i just got finished watching this movie and overall, this is quite an interesting film.
The special effects were good...tha acting was good...it was a pretty good movie.
Didnt have any curse words...no EXPLICIT scenes...just a fun film for tha family...well, at least everybody over tha age of 13, as tha rating says on tha back of tha DVD.
Im not going to buy it but it is worth a look-see at least once but its not something Im going to add to my DVD collection...
so if you havent seen it...you should RENT IT first to see if you like it...
On: 2004-09-17
This is by far the worst movie i have ever seen. I mean yeah it had a weak plot and u can obviously see the bad vs evil, but the jokes are extremely corny and the exaggeration is not even funny. Please do yourself a favor and dont even bother renting this piece of junk. I kept watching in hopes just to see if the movie would improve with time and it just kept getting worst. It was a complete waste of time.
On: 2004-09-12
This movie is repulsive, vulgar, boring, and completely illogical. I know this is supposed to be a "funny" movie, but its merely a rubbish heap of failed jokes and sight gags. In fact, this movie is so bad that it creates a black hole, into which all other movies are sucked and destroyed.
On: 2004-09-12
There were several scenes in Shaolin Soccer that had me laughing and gaping in disbelief. This flick is truly bizarre. It does have its own distinctive style, but that style is so exaggerated, so over the top, so inexplicably weird, that it may lose some viewers. To me, it is this sense of "anything goes" that puts this fantasy movie a step above most others.
If you thought the preview looked good, check it out. Its better than you think.
On: 2004-09-12
I originally saw this before it came to the US, and loved it. I especially love the ending. Stephen Chow has always been one of my favorite Hong Kong Stars and his movies are always a riot. Its great that his work is coming over to the US (glad they didnt change the title to Kungfu Soccer). His movies are too great to just stay in China. I truly recommend this. Hopefully more of his movies will come over. Cause one can never stop laughing when seeing them.
On: 2004-09-11
There were several scenes in Shaolin Soccer that had me laughing and gaping in disbelief. This flick is truly bizarre. It does have its own distinctive style, but that style is so exaggerated, so over the top, so inexplicably weird, that it may lose some viewers. To me, it is this sense of "anything goes" that puts this fantasy movie a step above most others.
If you thought the preview looked good, check it out. Its better than you think.
On: 2004-09-02
I watched the chinese version (with english subtitles) with my wife thinking that this was going to be your basic silly kung fu/soccer movie. I WAS that but it also had times of senseless violence and humiliation. (didnt see the Americanized version). The character of the sweet bun girl morphed from shy, unattractive to overdone to bald goalie. Since Im not chinese, maybe this stuff is really funny on the main land but it was lost on me. Some genuinely funny parts and great special effects but keep in mind, it is mixed.
by: kentnielsen On: 2004-08-28
This is one of the most entertaining "sports" films I have ever seen. Its also the most unrealistic, which is why I enjoyed it so much. What do you get when you combine soccer, Kung Pow, the Matrix, and Dragon Ball Z? This. Shaolin Soccer is not only quirky and amusing, but the different moves that the characters incorporate into their act are over-the-top and exciting. Forget everything you know about playing soccer. Things are much different here. If you want a change of pace from your typical comedy and sports movie, give this one a spin.
On: 2004-08-26
We saw the US version of Shaolin Soccer in the theater several months ago and really enjoyed it. At that time, the US version was not yet available on DVD, so we purchased the Chinese version. The Chinese version is a bit more violent and less funny. The English sub-titles are a little off as well.
Having just viewed the US version on DVD, we can confirm that it is the same version we enjoyed in the theater with better sub-titles than the Chinese version.
The movie really rates 5 stars for fun, but we dropped a star because its not exactly Academy Award material.
On: 2004-08-26
Shaolin Soccer is one of the cheesiest movies that I have ever seen. But, that is what makes this movie so fun. The story is fun, and the special effects and soccer moves are completely unbelievable because we are so used to the world we live in. Shaolin Soccer is almost an escape from that world. If you have ever dreamed that you could do super human things when playing a sport, Shaolin Soccer will definitely deliver. This movie almost has a One Flew over the Cookoos Nest assortment of characters. There is relatively good character development for most of the main characters, and the "bad guys" are easy to hate. The computer animated stuff is fun and the music is great. Simply put, this movie is just fun to watch.
By the way, as a general rule, I do not watched the dubbed version of anything. This review refers to the origonal chinese version.
On: 2004-08-25
Shaolin Soccer is one of the cheesiest movies that I have ever seen. But, that is what makes this movie so fun. The story is fun, and the special effects and soccer moves are completely unbelievable because we are so used to the world we live in. Shaolin Soccer is almost an escape from that world. If you have ever dreamed that you could do super human things when playing a sport, Shaolin Soccer will definitely deliver. This movie almost has a One Flew over the Cookoos Nest assortment of characters. There is relatively good character development for most of the main characters, and the "bad guys" are easy to hate. The computer animated stuff is fun and the music is great. Simply put, this movie is just fun to watch.
By the way, as a general rule, I do not watched the dubbed version of anything. This review refers to the origonal chinese version.
On: 2004-08-25
Shaolin Soccer is really a terrific piece of cinematic fun. Its at times hilarous, at times marvelous (while some special effects are obvious, some are seemless, and all of the martial-arts-style-soccer sequences in the film are breathtaking). Its a very comic-book style story of a group of Shaolin monks who have had to abandon the order to make a living. Steven Chow (the star, writer, and director of this Hong Kong Academy Award winning film) brings them together when he discovers that Shaolin can be used to play soccer! Together the reunited brothers take on team after team, under their former-soccer-star-turned-gimp coach played by Ng Man Tat, eventually challenging Team Evil, run by an evil beurocratic former soccer player who has a long history with the Shaolin teams coach. The road they travel, though, is filled with gag after gag and frequent displays of impressive Martial Arts action. There is an interesting quasi-romance story on the side featuring Chow and the beautiful Vicki Zhao (who is made up in the film to have growths all over her face) that was almost entirely cut out in the American theatrical run, but its a very interesting story that provides a great character ark for Zhao.
When, as I mentioned before, Miramax presented Shaolin Soccer for theatrical release, it was in the form of a sliced-and-diced (re-edited hack job) that really undermined the intellegence behind the slapstick in Shaolin Soccer. Character development was reduced to nill and relationships lost meaning. Signs were translated into English through poor utiliazation of CGI. Still, it was great to see parts of the film on the big screen.
For DVD, though, Miramax provides both its U.S. Theatrical version and the infinitely superior Original Chinese version (actually the extended version) on one reasonably priced DVD. The DVD, though containing 0 special features, is beautiful! I didnt bother watching the U.S. version (and neither will you, if you have any sense about you) but the 112 minute chinese version of the film is presented in a beatiful, almost faultless transfer. Sharpness is great, contrast is right on, grain is reduced, color balance is as good as one could hope for. Its a BIG improvement, visually, over the HK Universe DVD released a few years ago.
While the film might not fit everyones taste, its worth checking out for anyone. At least give it a rental and check out the original Chinese version, but I encourage you to take my advice and buy it now, as 90% of you will fall in love with the film once you see it. If you saw the film in theaters, regardless of whether you liked it then check out this disc! If you somehow liked the theatrical version, youll fall head-over-heels in love with the original version. And if you didnt, Im pretty sure the original version will surprise and fulfill you in ways the U.S. cut could not.
I dont give this film five stars because, while its one of hte most entertaining films Ive seen, the slapstick goes over the top a little too much for my tastes during a couple of instances. Theyre still funny, however, and the rest of it is so good that you can easily forgive those moments.
Go get it!
On: 2004-08-25
After three years of sitting on Shaolin Soccer, Miramax has finally released the movie to a quick theatrical run before dumping it onto DVD. I guess we should be thankful that theyve offered fans a subtitled version as well as a dubbed one. Sadly, none of the extras available on the Asian DVDs are included.
There are no extras to speak of. Not to mention there have been some changes to the songs on the soundtrack and a few cuts here and there.
Shaolin Soccer is an entertaining romp that deserves to be as hugely successful here as it was in its native country. While the print looks good, the lack of extras makes the Asian version the one worth tracking down for fans of this movie.
by: hustler360 On: 2004-08-22
Shaolin Soccer is your typical Bad News Bears type story. It involves six masters of kung fu that have broken apart from each other and are working dead end jobs. The Walter Mathau type role of the broken down has been turned coach, goes to a washed up soccer star from twenty years ago that agreed to throw a championship game, and then had his leg permanently injued by an angry mob of fans. One of the masters, who has nicknamed himself Steel Leg, showcases what he can do, and convinces the coach to agree to form a team with him. Steel Leg then goes to his other five "brothers" as he calls them, and convinces them to quit their jobs and form a team. The masters go from knowing nothing about soccer, to becoming masters of it by using their knowledge of kung fu towards the game.
Shaolin Soccer is probably one of the best movies I have seen in the last couple of years. It involves a very nice mix of comedy, great special effects, and action sequences. I am not a big fan of soccer at all, but I must say that it came off quite well in this movie. It was very entertaining and interesting to see kung fu mixed together with it. Perhaps the films best feature is the unbelieveable special effects that were used. Although some of the sequences used are over the top, the special effects are so good, that the sequences come off looking realistic.
Unfortunately Shaolin Soccer had a limited release in theaters. However, I highly recommend it. The DVD includes both the original Chinese version of the film with all the footage included, and the version that was released in U.S. theaters. Although I prefer watching the original version with subtitles, it is nice to be able to watch the theatrical version with the english language track when you dont feel like reading The extras for the DVD are somewhat limited. But, with how low the price is, and with how good the film is, there is no way you can pass this one up.
A solid 5 stars!!
On: 2004-08-14
My family watched this movie on TV while in India earlier in the year and were totally delighted. If you have a semi-twisted sense of humor, love kung fu type movies and cross cultural comedy this is delightful. We have been anxiously awaiting its arrival in the USA. So very fun! Just need some hot noodles and sticky buns to eat while watching it.
On: 2004-08-02
this movie combines the beautifulness and revolutionarity of the matrix-esque special effects and the jaw-droppingly great kung fu of the ninja to bring you a masterpiece. laced with comic relief and well-thought-out plot development this movie is sure to please.
and at this price, it is seriously a steal. im gonna go buy it for everyone i know for christmas. hey, if $13 is too much for you, call me up and become my friend by christmas.
On: 2004-08-01
Many others have reviewed this film pretty well here. I think theyre pretty accurate -- its a fantastic film. Ill just mention the subtitles here, on the import version. Someone else seemed to like them a lot (finding them humorous), but I thought the fairly bad translation to English was distracting. Too much of it was in the vein of "All your base are belong to us." Ill be looking into the U.S. version when its released on DVD, which I assume will have a better translation.
On: 2004-07-12
This movie is funnay!It employs some great martial arts techniques and kool computer effects. It begins with a group of former Shaolin monks that have chosen to embark on different ways of life. They reunite through one student that is down on his luck poor, but still positive. Another man was once a soccer legend and loses that prestige through an injury. He takes abuse from the coach. He then meets the former shaolin monk and they decide to form a soccer team.
It sums up the sense of honor and respect that the martial arts emanate. It does this lightly and humorously. The part in which stephen chow and his other monk brethren dress up and sing and dance...very funny. I nearly choaked on my popcorn and collapsed on the floor of my room laughing. It has the contrast of the basic yin and yang of evil, hence the "evil team"(a bad soccer team that the shaolin monks must compete against)It brings the martial arts timeless ideals of honor into the 21rst century, With style and substance.
On: 2004-07-10
While I like to think of myself as an internationalist when it comes to watching films, I had never heard of Stephen Chow before deciding to take a chance on Shaolin Soccer. Shame on me. Chow turns out to be a hilarious and creative star. Who could have dreamed of something as goofy, infectious and, at the same time, as technically brilliant (the special effects are eye-popping) as Shaolin Soccer? Now, Im reading through the comments left here by Mr. Chows longtime fans and I realize Im going to have to check out some of his "better works" (as judged by these aficionados) like God of Cookery and From Beijing with Love. Not knowing what to expect from Shaolin Soccer, I found myself delightfully convulsed with laughter at two early points in the film: - An impromptu synchronized street rendition of the Kool and the Gang hit Celebration. This is almost impossible to explain. When it took shape in the movie, I literally mouthed the words "What the...?" Truly inspired. - A second muscial number, in which two of the Shaolin brothers take to the stage in an ill-fated cabaret act. While Im sure this was even funnier in Cantonese, even the wonderfully descriptive subtitles demonstrated the amateur campiness of their performance (which was exactly Chows point). Plus, for any soccer/football fan the depictions of the in-game events are a joy. All in all, Shaolin Soccer was a unexpected treat.
On: 2004-07-09
While I like to think of myself as an internationalist when it comes to watching films, I had never heard of Stephen Chow before deciding to take a chance on Shaolin Soccer.Shame on me. Chow turns out to be a hilarious and creative star. Who could have dreamed of something as goofy, infectious and, at the same time, as technically brilliant (the special effects are eye-popping) as Shaolin Soccer? Now, Im reading through the comments left here by Mr. Chows longtime fans and I realize Im going to have to check out some of his "better works" (as judged by these aficionados) like God of Cookery and From Beijing with Love. Not knowing what to expect from Shaolin Soccer, I found myself delightfully convulsed with laughter at two early points in the film: - An impromptu synchronized street rendition of the Kool and the Gang hit Celebration. This is almost impossible to explain. When it took shape in the movie, I literally mouthed the words "What the...?" Truly inspired. - A second muscial number, in which two of the Shaolin brothers take to the stage in an ill-fated cabaret act. While Im sure this was even funnier in Cantonese, even the wonderfully descriptive subtitles demonstrated the amateur campiness of their performance (which was exactly Chows point). Plus, for any soccer/football fan the depictions of the in-game events are a joy. All in all, Shaolin Soccer was a unexpected treat.
On: 2004-06-09
Dare no one criticize the "king of comedy" stephen Chow or, OK, most of you westerners may have a different taste.
From the point of view of a Hong Kong born native speaker of cantonese, I have no choice but to say that Shaolin Soccer was overrated. SCs hilarious jokes went stale and he was too obssesed with the use of special effect too. This movie makes me miss his past works like "from beijin with love", etc so much.
another point is that, SC are now more concern of the market of the rest of Asia and even Western, he eliminates all jokes which only locals find funny. So to me, as a Hong Kong people, I am disappointed.
On: 2004-06-08
Dare no one criticize the "king of comedy" stephen Chow or, OK, most of you westerners may have a different taste.
From the point of view of a Hong Kong born native speaker of cantonese, I have no choice but to say that Shaolin Soccer was overrated. SCs hilarious jokes went stale and he was too obssesed with the use of special effect too. This movie makes me miss his past works like "from beijin with love", etc so much.
another point is that, SC are now more concern of the market of the rest of Asia and even Western, he eliminates all jokes which only locals find funny. So to me, as a Hong Kong people, I am disappointed.
On: 2004-05-26
First off, Im going to agree with pretty much everyone here, the scenes with Kung Fu are done excellently. The effects, although ridiculous are quite cool. Now my (minor) gripes: - Theres no way to skip to the menu while the disc is initially loading. This isnt a big deal the first time, but it does get kind of annoying to have to sit through the warnings and logo screens. - The story kind of falls over itself towards the end. That might be kind of predictable given that this team would have destroyed everyone in the competition, but it kind of betrays the point of these guys playing together (to spread the word about Shaolin kung fu) when it looks like every team but the scrubs knows a little kung fu. Other than that though, it is quite fun to watch.
by: cookieman108 On: 2004-04-18
I had heard about Shaolin Soccer (2001) a couple of years ago from a friend, as he had recommended it to me, knowing the particular way some of my tastes ran, and I am glad he did, as its a heady mix of the wacky, the absurd, and the just plain fun. The movie starts off with a flashback, showing an extremely popular Chinese soccer player named Golden Leg Fung accepting money to throw a game from a lackey, and the consequences of his actions, including a severely crippling beating by the crowd after purposely missing a rather easy goal scoring opportunity. Now, its many years later, and Fung now works for the gangster organization that had originally paid him off, in a completely demeaning position. He dreams of coaching, but the once lackey who owns the current champion soccer team and is also chairman of the league, finds this notion completely humorous, and heap further degradations upon Fung. Despondent, Fung ends up meeting a vagabond/shaolin follower called Steel Leg, and formulates a plan to build a new soccer team around this exceptional martial artist. Fung also finds out Steel Leg has enough brothers, all once trained in martial arts, to make up a team. Each brother has their own, unique ability, and soon they begin to practice. During their first practice, the men suffer a fairly brutal beating (this whole pain, beating, and humiliation factor seems to be a constant theme throughout), but soon find their shaolin training coming back to them, and turn the tables on their opponents. They enter the tournament, sweeping through the ranks, until finally the meet with the current champions, the Evil Team (Im not kidding, thats their name), and meet the ultimate challenge, as the chairman gives his team a decidedly unfair advantage. Will the shaolin players be victorious, or will they suffer the crushing defeat at the hands of the chairman and his evil team?
The special effects here are truly amazing and inventive, making for the most insane soccer playing Ive ever seen. Imagine someone being able to kick a soccer ball with the same force of shooting it out of a cannon, and with pinpoint accuracy. There is not really a lot of actual soccer playing, in the traditional sense, as with the abilities of the players, the ball mainly zooms around in a very cartoonish manner. Mixing kung fu and soccer is certainly and interesting concept, and provides some really spectacular visuals. The English captioning is really bad, but certainly gave me much to laugh about, along with the seriously outlandish overacting.
Special features include an option to watch the film with the deleted scenes, the deleted scenes by themselves, a trailer, biographies, a featurette on the making of the film, a photo gallery, and behind the scenes featurette on how the special effects were made. All in all, Shaolin Soccer is an unsane, over the top comedy steeped in outrageous action and definitely worth a look if you care to expand your horizons.
Cookieman108
On: 2004-04-17
I had heard about Shaolin Soccer (2001) a couple of years ago from a friend, as he had recommended it to me, knowing the particular way some of my tastes ran, and I am glad he did, as its a heady mix of the wacky, the absurd, and the just plain fun. The movie starts off with a flashback, showing an extremely popular Chinese soccer player named Golden Leg Fung accepting money to throw a game from a lackey, and the consequences of his actions, including a severely crippling beating by the crowd after purposely missing a rather easy goal scoring opportunity. Now, its many years later, and Fung now works for the gangster organization that had originally paid him off, in a completely demeaning position. He dreams of coaching, but the once lackey who owns the current champion soccer team and is also chairman of the league, finds this notion completely humorous, and heap further degradations upon Fung. Despondent, Fung ends up meeting a vagabond/shaolin follower called Steel Leg, and formulates a plan to build a new soccer team around this exceptional martial artist. Fung also finds out Steel Leg has enough brothers, all once trained in martial arts, to make up a team. Each brother has their own, unique ability, and soon they begin to practice. During their first practice, the men suffer a fairly brutal beating (this whole pain, beating, and humiliation factor seems to be a constant theme throughout), but soon find their shaolin training coming back to them, and turn the tables on their opponents. They enter the tournament, sweeping through the ranks, until finally the meet with the current champions, the Evil Team (Im not kidding, thats their name), and meet the ultimate challenge, as the chairman gives his team a decidedly unfair advantage. Will the shaolin players be victorious, or will they suffer the crushing defeat at the hands of the chairman and his evil team?
The special effects here are truly amazing and inventive, making for the most insane soccer playing Ive ever seen. Imagine someone being able to kick a soccer ball with the same force of shooting it out of a cannon, and with pinpoint accuracy. There is not really a lot of actual soccer playing, in the traditional sense, as with the abilities of the players, the ball mainly zooms around in a very cartoonish manner. Mixing kung fu and soccer is certainly and interesting concept, and provides some really spectacular visuals. The English captioning is really bad, but certainly gave me much to laugh about, along with the seriously outlandish overacting.
Special features include an option to watch the film with the deleted scenes, the deleted scenes by themselves, a trailer, biographies, a featurette on the making of the film, a photo gallery, and behind the scenes featurette on how the special effects were made. All in all, Shaolin Soccer is an unsane, over the top comedy steeped in outrageous action and definitely worth a look if you care to expand your horizons.
Cookieman108
by: Anonymous On: 2004-04-09
thIS MOVIE REALLY ROCK, SO FAR IS MY FAVORITE HK FILM !
On: 2004-03-18
Well, judging from the reviews, Im not the only one that thought this was a great movie! It might not be like other movies that youre used to, but if you should see a foreign comedy from Hong Kong, this is it. We first saw it at the Comic-Con in San Diego in 2002 and have since bought the VCD. Weve been waiting forever for it to come out in theaters and now it is going to be released on March 26th! Its a great story about how underdogs can beat the odds and really kick ass. It also has a lot of cool effects and so many funny moments in the movie. If you go to see this movie (and you really should give it a try!), remember not to take anything too seriously and just get ready to laugh and cheer for the underdog team. Its being released in subtitles though, but the trailer is dubbed and also when we saw it, it was dubbed. The subtitled version is good too! People might think this is a weird movie (Chinese comedy about soccer and martial arts??) but it really does have a great story and great characters. Watch this mo |
