Forbidden City Cop

Forbidden City Cop, released in 1996, is a unique blend of comedy, action, and fantasy, showcasing the spirited comic genius of leading Hong Kong actor, Stephen Chow. Co-stars include Carina Lau and Carman Lee, notable names in Hong Kong cinema who add a significant spark to the film's charm.

The movie cleverly integrates various elements of martial arts and imperial history into a singular narrative. Set during the Ming dynasty period, the story centers around Ling Ling Fat (played by Stephen Chow), the titular Forbidden City Cop. Unusually for a royal officer, he has an inventive mind and a knack for gadgets which he regularly puts to use, rather than the customary kung fu prowess. Ling Ling Fat is both the smallest and smartest amongst the four elite bodyguards of the Emperor, his primary task being to ensure the safety of the royal family.

Despite his unconventional role in the royal court, Ling Ling Fat also wants to lead a regular life with his beloved, earnestly charming wife (portrayed by Carina Lau). The matter-of-fact antics of the couple provide a contentious undertone to the plot, making their relationship lively, tender, and – above all – relatable.

The twist in the story occurs when the Emperor receives news of a mysterious threat to his life, ostensibly from the leading grand doctor (Cheung Tat Ming) who predicts the Emperor's imminent demise. The plot shifts gear as our inventive yet noncombatant Ling Ling Fat is inexplicably hurled into the frontline of action and tasked with uncovering this potential conspiracy.

The movie is a showpiece for Stephen Chow's signature mo lei tau ('nonsense') comedy, recognized for its absurd humor and playful wit. It allows Chow to showcase not just his inventiveness as an actor but also his remarkable ability to blend into any surrounding, whether it's in the midst of the royal court, or a deceptive enemy ambush.

Carina Lau matches his performance with her grounded portrayal of Ling Ling Fat’s spirited and understanding wife. She brings in the much-needed emotional contrast to the comedic undertones, thereby elevating the overall casting performance. The other supporting actors, including the damsel-in-distress Carman Lee, and the wily grand doctor, each echo a different facet of this vibrant narrative world.

Director duo Vincent Kok and Stephen Chow steer the movie towards an exciting trajectory. With tactful blending of historical setup and the hilarious absurdity of Chow’s mo lei tau comedy, they weave together a film that is both engaging and entertaining. Clever subplots, infused with a range of gadgets, fantasy elements and instances of mistaken identities, each contribute to the film's burgeoning excitement. This delightful mix makes Forbidden City Cop an unforgettable cinematic ride quite unlike regular period dramas, redefining the realm of martial arts comedies.

Director of Photography, David Chung, deserves praise for his illumination of the Imperial world. The deft cinematography which shifts from the grandeur of the palatial halls to the maze-like alleys of the city, magnifies the visual aesthetic to new heights. The seamless transitions between action, comedy and fantasy elevate the storytelling experience, making every frame an integral part of the narrative journey.

The action sequences, choreographed by Ching Siu Tung, are impressively hypnotic and yet provide ample room for Stephen Chow to spill his comic timing over. The fights are often more about wit and trickery than pure physical prowess or martial might – they showcase Ling Ling Fat’s penchant for innovative gadgetry, thereby standing distinctly apart from usual action tropes.

The humour in Forbidden City Cop is an integral aspect of its appeal. The wordplays, puns and slapstick comedy are delightfully woven into the storyline. There are many moments that will spark laughter or at least a hearty chuckle, yet never detract from the flow of the narrative.

Overall, Forbidden City Cops stands out for its inventive blending of comedy, action and a dash of fantasy, deftly directed against an imperial Chinese backdrop. Its charm encompasses a spectrum of emotions, from clever laughs to thrilling action scenes, all hinged upon the stellar performances of the lead actors. Watch this 1996 classic if you're a fan of Stephen Chow's signature style of comedy or simply a lover of brilliantly choreographed comic action dramas.