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Starring
:
Josephine
Siao
Ricky
Hui
Wu
Fung
Lau
Hak Suen
Cheung
Lui
Chan
Sing
John
Woo
Producer
:
Josephine
Siao
Louis
Sit
Director
:
John
Woo
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PLAIN
JANE TO THE RESCUE (1982)
Reviewed
by Andrew Saroch
A
few weeks after reviewing the very strange John Woo comedy 'From
Riches To Rags', I now turn my attention to another of his
early works. As the titles implies, this comedy is just as
unusual and will again surprise viewers who are only
accustomed to Woo's action films.
Goofy,
accident-prone Judy (Siao) is constantly being fired from the
odd-jobs she gets due to her incompetence. These acrimonious
partings include her unsuccessful work as a road worker, a
stuntwoman and a cleaner. During one of her later jobs, Judy
bumps into old friend Ricky (Hui) who still has a secret crush
on her and is more than keen to renew their friendship.
Alongside this chance meeting, Judy also manages to find an
occupation that actually suits her: to tutor the down-to-earth
father of a wealthy company executive. After an initially
awkward start to her new role, Judy's charge begins to take a
shine to her and, having never trusted any of his previous
tutors, is now willing to make an effort. However, Judy's rich
employer is keen to change his father's will and tricks him
into signing over the vast corporation over. The race is now
on for Judy and Ricky to find the father and get him to
overrule his mistake before its too late.
Episodic
like a Hui Brothers film but without the sharp humour, 'Plain
Jane To The Rescue' is an enjoyable diversion though it may
test the patience of some fans. Packed with typical 80s
wackiness and a faintly surreal tone, this is Hong Kong comedy
for those of a sturdy constitution. Although John Woo tries,
as he did with 'From Riches To Rags', to include a message
against materialism, the finished production is too muddled to
remain memorable. The ending in particular displays a complete
lack of cohesion and, as with 'From Riches To Rags'
illustrates a director losing all control of his work.
However, Josephine Siao and Ricky Hui are the two major
reasons why this still retains a sense of entertainment
despite its faults. Both stars are as wacky, yet appealing as
each other and they do enjoy a certain on-screen chemistry
together. Siao will always be associated with her role in 'Fong
Sai Yuk' and her performance here is an indication of her
abilities with comic material. 'Plain Jane To The Rescue' is
patchy and will not be to everyone's tastes, but has the odd
moment of humour to ensure it's not a total waste of time.
Rating:
 
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