Fong Sai Yuk II (1993)

In terms of its storyline/ plot and its balance of comedy and action, it is generally well-known that this second part of the Fong Sai Yuk film series is not quite as well-executed or as well-balanced as the first film, but it is still a very enjoyable ride for those who like a light-hearted action-comedy kung fu movie.

STORY (No spoilers)
As per the synopsis of this show, this is a continuation from where the first film 'Fong Sai Yuk' left off. There is more intrigue and more undercover/ plotting scenes which make way for less comedic sections, so I think the film tries to compensate by making some scenes rather funnily cliche, instead of from pure comedic timing and content.

But the mother-son duo is back and as scintillating as ever, so this show is still a great watch. The fight scenes are still brilliantly executed, with new stunts and action sequences that are amazing and breath-taking to watch.


ACTING/ CHARACTERS
JET LI - is as great as ever as the titular Fong Sai Yuk. He grows up a bit more in this film - in the first, he was still a rather immature and rash young man in the full flush of youth and still having youthful ideals. Here, having gone through some of the trials and having his eyes opened from events in the first film, he has a more serious and weighty personality. As a member of a resistance group and god-son of a well-known people's hero, he has more responsibilities thrust upon him, in addition to his newly married state.
It makes for different sort of conflicts and tensions compared to the first film. Jet Li carries it all well, and of course, the action sequences are as stellar as ever.
JOSEPHINE SIAO - as Fong Sai Yuk's mother, remains a hilariously wonderful character. Unfortunately, her screen time is not as lengthy as the first film as she has to make way for the build-up of the plot, as well as for other supporting characters introduced in this second instalment. Which is a bit of a shame because her scenes and her interactions with Fong Sai Yuk are what makes the films so sparklingly good.

As this film has more going on in terms of story/ plotline, there is therefore more supporting characters being introduced. It's a bit of a hit-or-miss with them but they carry the story along. Seriously, the brightest gems in the film are really Jet Li and Josephine Siao - all others pale in comparison to them.


MUSIC
As per the first film, it is suitably aligned to the time period and to the style and tone of the film.


RE-WATCH VALUE
Definitely re-watchable and a good sequel to the first film. The quality of the action scenes have certainly not dropped so this film is watchable, even for that alone.

A good follow-up to its brilliant first film.

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