2021 Feature Film Programme

THE PAPER TIGERS | 三紙老虎

Tranh Quoc Bao | 2020 | English, Chinese | Cert PG (TBC) | 108 mins

After pitching the film to Hollywood financiers, writer/Director Tran Quoc Bao rejected calls to rewrite the lead as a ‘big name’ caucasian actor; instead, crowd-funding and producing Paper Tigers as a fully independent feature - with an Asian American lead and diverse supporting cast as intended. Successfully mixing comedy with martial arts drama, which draws on classic American martial arts genre and Hong Kong action cinema; Tran and Action Director Ken Quitugua deliver a compelling mystery, grounded by great action and chemistry from its cast, and some hilarious cameos.

Synopsis:

Three former Kung Fu brothers reunite after decades, as they attempt to solve the mystery of their Sifu’s death. Starring Alain Uy, Ron Yuan, and Mykel Shannon Jenkins, with Roger Yuan and Matthew ‘Master Ken’ Page.

Armour of God

Jackie Chan | 1986 | Cantonese with English subtitles | Cert 15 | 98 mins

After the phenomenal success of Police Story, Jackie Chan returns with international action epic Armour of God. Initially directed by Eric Tsang, production was halted in September 1985 when Jackie fell onto rocks during filming at Samobor Castle in former Yugoslavia (now Croatia). The near death experience wasn’t enough to stop Jackie. After emergency brain surgery and a brief recovery period, he miraculously returned to deliver one of the biggest stunt driven films of his career; completing the film as both star and Director. Released in time for Chinese New Year 1987, Armour of God was the first Hong Kong movie to break $35m HKD at the box office. Presented in a stunning new 2K restoration by 88Films, this screening is also supported by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office.

Synopsis:

Jackie Chan stars as Asian Hawk: former Canto-pop star and Indiana Jones style adventurer (no less!), who becomes involved in a plot to recover the lost Armour of God; he must battle a mysterious cult who also want the Armour, and save his loved ones. Also stars Alan Tam, Lola Forner & Rosamund Kwan.

KUNG FU WARRIOR | LỤC VÂN TIÊN: TUYỆT ĐỈNH KUNGFU

Hoang Phuc Nguyen | 2017 | Vietnamese with English subtitles | Cert 15 | 118 mins

Former Jackie Chan Stunt Team member Andy Long Nguyen (Police Story 2013) stars as Luc Van Tien; a celestial kung fu warrior who comes to earth in search of his lost love. Blending fantasy and reality, with nods to classic Hong Kong cinema, Andy Long effortlessly riffs on the innovate choreography of his mentor Jackie Chan, while always feeling fresh and funny. Kung Fu Warrior is a joy to watch and Long is clearly a star in the making.

Synopsis:

Luc Van Tien, kung Fu warrior descends to earth from seventh heaven, to rescue his lost love. A charming action adventure with terrific fights and comedy. Also stars Martial Club members Andy Le, Brian Le and Du Au.

MORE THAN MIYAGI: THE PAT MORITA STORY

Kevin Derek | 2021 | English | Cert 15 (TBC) | 89 mins

Director Kevin Derek (The Real Miyagi) crafts an intimate documentary, celebrating of one of martial arts cinemas’ most loved characters and actors. With a host of great interviews and memories of costars and friends, rare behind the scenes footage and videos from the collection of Karate Kid Director, John G. Avildsen; as well as narration and home videos from Pat Morita himself who passed away in 2005. A must for fans of the genre and cinema in general.

Synopsis:

The life story of Karate Kid actor and star Pat Morita, with interviews from cast members including Ralph Macchio, Martin Kove, William Zabka, stunt double Fumio Demura, and choreographer Pat Johnston.

Charity Screening: Ej’s warriors

Ellis Jennings Jnr | 2021 | English | Cert U (TBC) | 60 mins

After turning his life around, Sensei EJ creates Warriors Karate Academy in the basement of Greater Glory Ministries in Columbus, Ohio. A summer school is created and the school quickly grows outside of the church and becomes involved in the community. After money struggles, location changes and other obstacles, including failing to make it to Nationals, the school fights back with a vengeance, overcoming every obstacle in their way. They go from a church basement to every news station and radio station in the city, on National Teams, and even fighting for the United States outside of the country.