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Throughout
the history of modern Hong Kong cinema there have undoubtedly been
many stars. From Kwan Tak Hing to current stars such as Lau Ching Wan
and Sammi Cheng, numerous names have contributed to the development
and popularity of this unique film industry. However, few can be
attributed with changing the face of Hong Kong cinema, few can earn
the overused title of 'genius'. Without listing the reasons for and
against the plethora of stars that may be in contention, I would
personally list a mere handful in this category. Michael Hui is one of
the film-makers whose contribution certainly ranks him among this
class. Before our exclusive interview with Michael, a short foreword
is in order just to give a suitable introduction.
Michael
Hui's films, at their best, combined a strong dose of character-driven
comedy with a splash of subtle slapstick alongside a unique Cantonese
sensibility. What Hui also provided was a definite social backbone
behind the humour and the examination of the plight of the working
man. His seminal masterpiece 'The Private Eyes' is perhaps the most
vivid realisation of this; from the opening Sam Hui-sung theme to the
tracking shots of the Hong Kong populous, there is no doubt that this
is intended as more than just an exercise in comedy. The pattern
continues in the box-office smash 'Security Unlimited' which again
brings into the narrative each of the Hui brothers well-rounded
character-types. Both films are widely regarded as the best of the Hui
brothers' canon, but I would also recommend the under-rated 'The
Contract'; although lacking the layered-storyline it is pure fun and
contains some classic Michael Hui routines, especially when he
presents a crass quiz show.
Throughout
his later career, that followed the hugely successful 'Security
Unlimited', Michael still produced some cinematic gems, even though
some of his output wasn't of his usual standard. Highly recommended
viewing of this period includes the wonderful 'Chocolate Inspector'
and the well-loved 'Chicken And Duck Talk'. Both films are a perfect
example of the chemistry between Michael and Ricky - a partnership
that has rarely been matched. Michael's craggy, yet appealing persona
makes these two classics required viewing for every Hong Kong film
fan. Weaker features such as 'Teppanyaki' and 'Happy Ding Dong' have
their moments, but fail to have the spark of genius that Michael's
greatest efforts have.
It's
hard to define what makes Michael Hui such a master of his craft; his
supreme timing, ability to produce magic from moments of subtle
stillness and the sublime character interaction all play their part.
The composition of his talent doesn't need deep analysis to appreciate
though. Just as the works of screen legends the ilk of Chaplin, Tati
and the Marx Brothers can be much more than simple comedy, the easiest
way to really enjoy Michael Hui is to simply sit back and lose
yourself in his unique world. The reward is priceless.
The
following is an interview that DDUK conducted with Michael Hui via
email :
DDUK:
Did you always have a gift for comedy, or did it develop over time?
Michael
Hui: I think I always had a tendency to make people laugh ever
since I was a kid although I may not be aware of it. The skills I used
in my films and talk shows I developed over time.
DDUK:
Did you ever imagine, when you started working in the industry, that
you would have such a major impact on Chinese culture?
MH:
I never imagine such impact . Like all comedians, we all started as a
joke. And in time they saw something behind the jokes and started to
look into the matter with greater depth.
DDUK:
Which
of your films are you proudest of and why?
MH:
I like 'The Private Eyes' and 'Chicken And Duck Talk' most. 'The
Private Eyes' points outs the conflict between employers and
employees. A subject matter which I am very sensitive of since
childhood . I grew up watching my father being exploited by his
employers. 'Chicken And Duck Talk' comments on a very
interesting subject : The infiltration of American food culture to the
orient which is supposed to be very strong on food culture.
Its
seemingly impossible , however , it succeeded ... why ?
DDUK:
Which
of your films would you like to remake if you had the opportunity?
MH:
I seldom consider remaking my films.
DDUK:
Why
didn't Ricky have bigger roles in 'Games Gamblers Play' and 'The Last
Message'?
MH:
Because at that time , Ricky is still under contract with Shaw Studios
DDUK:
Who are your major influences both as a comedian and a film-maker?
MH:
Chaplin , Leung Sing Bor ( a Chinese comedian in the 50’s and the
60’s ), Billy Wilder and Robert Wise
DDUK:
Why do
you think Comedy films are so undervalued by critics?
MH:
You tend to undervalue things that makes you laugh and remember things
that cause you pain.
DDUK:
How
did you come to appear in 'Cannonball Run' and what do you think of
the finished film?
MH:
Golden Harvest invited me to take a cameo role in the picture and I
thought it was fun at that time. Well , the finished film is a
lot of fun.
DDUK:
What do you think of the current state of Hong Kong
cinema?
MH:
The Hong Kong market is at its lowest peak ever as a result of the
shrinking box office returns from all over Asia . Piracy of copy right
is one of the major reasons.
DDUK:
What do you think of Chow Sing Chi's work?
MH:
I think he is a brilliant comedian .
DDUK:
Will
there ever be another Hui brothers project?
MH:
Have you watched a James Bond movie by the name of 'Never Say Never
Again' ?
DDUK:
What
are your future plans?
MH:
I am trying to come up with something that I have never tried before .
And trying to figure out what future comedy will be like .
DDUK:
Are you
surprised that you have such a big following in the west? Do you have
any message for your fans?
MH:
I am very happy to know that I have such a big following in the west .
Please tell my fans that I will have some new projects coming up soon
and thank them for their patience !
Michael
Hui Recommended Filmography:
Dragons's
Den UK would like to say a big thank you to Michael Hui for taking the
time to speak with us.
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