Synopsis
In 1940s Shanghai, aspiring gangster Sing and his partner try to join the notorious Axe Gang, only to discover that the residents of Pigsty Alley include several martial arts masters. As rival gangs close in, Sing's buried potential begins to emerge. The film combines slapstick comedy, extravagant action, and classic kung fu movie themes in a battle between criminal ambition and heroic self-discovery.
Factoids & Trivia
- "Gong Fu" is the film's original Chinese title; it was released internationally as "Kung Fu Hustle" in 2004.
- The film deliberately draws on Hong Kong martial arts cinema, especially the heroic masters, melodramatic rivalries, and exaggerated fighting styles associated with older kung fu movies.
- Several performers associated with 1970s and 1980s Hong Kong action cinema returned to the screen for the production. For some, the film marked a comeback after many years away from filmmaking.
- The Landlady was cast after the production team noticed Yuen Qiu during another performer's screen test. "Kung Fu Hustle" became her first film role in 19 years.
- Eva Huang was selected from more than 8,000 candidates for the role of Fong. Her character was written without dialogue so that her gestures and expressions would carry the performance.
- The production used extensive digital effects to exaggerate the physical comedy and martial arts action, giving the fights a cartoon-like quality while retaining the structure of traditional kung fu choreography.
- "Kung Fu Hustle" premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 14, 2004. It later became one of the most successful Chinese-language films in North America.
- The film received 16 Hong Kong Film Award nominations and won six, including Best Picture, Best Action Choreography, Best Film Editing, Best Sound Effects, Best Supporting Actor, and Best Visual Effects.
- A sequel was announced in 2005, but development was later put on hold.