Project A 1983 Film Review: From every angle, this film deserves five stars.-Anime Phone Cases

Film Name: A计划 / Project A / A計劃

The narrative unfolds with a loose yet cohesive structure, centering on a main storyline of fighting pirates while branching out into numerous subplots. These subplots never overshadow the main story, always circling back to it, and each contributes meaningfully to the main plot’s development. Naturally, these subplots carry more of the signature elements that make Jackie Chan’s action comedies so appealing. In the film’s behind-the-scenes footage, it’s revealed that two scenes featuring Yuen Biao as an instructor training Jackie and others had already been filmed. However, they were ultimately cut for the sake of narrative coherence and pacing. This decision speaks volumes about Jackie’s dedication and commitment to the film.

The Cut Scene: Yuen Biao Teaching Grappling Techniques

The film delivers an exceptional viewing experience: a tightly woven plot, brisk pacing, and Jackie Chan’s signature action sequences. Chan handles his personal messages with remarkable skill—they seamlessly integrate into the narrative and align with the protagonist’s character, avoiding the awkward didacticism found in some films. The most striking example is Jackie’s contempt when he hears the British superintendent planning to compromise with Luo Sanpao. This moment not only showcases Jackie’s righteous spirit and patriotic fervor but also serves as a pivotal plot twist. It avoids didacticism while further shaping the character of Ma Rulong, the supercop Jackie portrays—an archetype that would become a recurring presence in his films.

Moreover, the film’s characterization is spot-on. The Iron Triangle trio, needless to say, each possesses distinct personalities that are vivid and lively. Among them, Di Wei’s formidable villain Luo Sanpao leaves a lasting impression. His formidable combat prowess commands respect, while his stubborn refusal to surrender even when cornered showcases a proud and defiant spirit. Unlike many simplistic, muscle-bound villains, Sanpao meticulously builds Sanpao Island into a thriving, well-organized operation—a major thorn in the side of Hong Kong’s police force.

It must be said that Luo Sanpao truly embodies a cult-classic aura.

The supporting cast also comes alive with depth. Jackie Chan’s characters Big Mouth and Tai Bao, though the film’s comic relief, possess distinct personalities that never blur into one another. The corrupt businessman Zhou Yonglin, with his hypocritical facade, is hilariously exposed when Chan captures him and forces a confession through theatrical interrogation.

But what truly stands out is Jackie Chan’s death-defying stunt—the scene where he plunges from the clock tower is utterly unprecedented, a feat only matched by Chan himself. This iconic sequence has since been imitated countless times in other films and TV shows.