The Inspector Wears Skirts

At its core, The Inspector Wears Skirts is a Hong Kong action-comedy movie characterized by vibrant energy, infectious humor, and a compelling plot that dives into the intricacies of law enforcement and power dynamics. Released in 1988, this movie stars talented and renowned actors, including Sibelle Hu, Cynthia Rothrock, and Kara Wai. These powerhouses deliver performances filled with fantastic fighting sequences, robust humor, and an infusion of refreshing feminism in the world dominated by macho themes.

The movie is broadly based on Hong Kong's Special Forces' female unit, directing the viewers' attention to the demanding and high-stakes world of law enforcement. The filmmakers use this premise not just to create a stage for relentless action but also to communicate significant social messages.

Sibelle Hu plays the role of Inspector Kan (Madam Wu), a rigorous law enforcement officer assigned to form the first all-woman SWAT team. She is tasked with training a diverse group of women drawn from various fields for this special team. The group includes an exotic dancer, a police officer, a crooked cop, a former military officer, and many more. The film packs on comedy through the process of their intense training, their stumbling journey trying to keep pace with the rigid discipline required in their roles, and the playful bonding and camaraderie among them, making the film hilariously entertaining.

Hu's co-stars in the movie also shine brightly, providing dynamic performances fused with their characters' individual arcs. Cynthia Rothrock, famous for her martial arts skills, plays a tomboyish character, Huang, who provides many of the film's comedic elements while showcasing her impressive fight sequences. Kara Wai, portraying an army deserter, delivers a resilient performance and is a major driving force in the film's climactic moments.

The Inspector Wears Skirts masterfully mixes high stakes action with humor as Madam Wu's team battles against both layered societal stereotypes and nefarious criminals. The film is more than just a typical 80's action-comedy – it's also a thoughtful portrayal of woman empowerment and sisterhood set against the backdrop of a traditional male-dominated profession.

While the main plot unravels, entertaining subplots brew and contribute to the richness of the story, including the hilarious romantic intrusion of two bumbling male officers seeking the affections of these fierce women. Juxtaposing traditional masculine roles with these strong female characters adds significant depth to the overall plot, which gets increasingly engrossing as it progresses.

The Inspector Wears Skirts is marked by well-choreographed action sequences that not only bring the audience to the edge of their seats but also highlight the strength and courage of the women characters. It is particularly satisfying to witness these sequences being performed by Rothrock, Hu, and Wai, who are known for their martial arts skills.

Director Wellson Chin takes the helm of the film, displaying a deft understanding of pacing and timing, crucial in both comedy and action genres. He also presents paradoxical themes and components that create an engaging narrative. The movie is as much about breaking societal norms and challenging gender roles, as it is about showcasing camaraderie, friendship, and unity in diversity.

The Inspector Wears Skirts, filled with its lively energy, masterful action, tongue-in-cheek humor, and a rich, meaningful narrative, stayed relevant and popular even decades after its release. Featuring empowered women front and center, the film makes a bold statement, especially in an era where action movies typically spotlighted male heroes. In essence, the film encapsulates a unique blend of comedic-relief, high-stakes action, social critique, and character growth that undoubtedly stands the tests of time for any global cinema enthusiast.