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Starring
:
Tony
Leung Kar Fei
Kenny
Bee
Carina
Lau
Veronica
Yip
Simon
Yam
Charine
Chan
Producer
:
Jeff
Lau
Director
:
Jacky
Pang
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ROSE,
ROSE I LOVE YOU (1993)
Reviewed
by Andrew Saroch
The
law of diminishing returns comes into effect in this inferior
sequel that, despite its raw energy, cannot live up to its
award-winning predecessor. Jacky Pang takes over from Jeff Lau
at the helm, while fans of the original will at least be
re-assured that Tony Leung Kar Fei returns in the role of
Keith Lui.
Keith
Lui and his partner Leung (Bee) are assigned to investigate
the theft of the 'Star Of Malaysia' and, to this end, have to
keep a close eye on a beautiful suspect (Lau). Both men have
their own ways of endearing themselves to the suspect, with
Leung's eccentric turn as an illegal immigrant proving to be
the most successful. Leung discovers that newly released
master thief Mak (Yam) is also looking for the priceless star,
as is the 'Black Rose' who is secretly in love with Keith.
Thrown into this murky blend is the 'White Rose' who
eventually reveals herself to be the original suspect and is
eager to protect her own interests.
If
such a thing is possible, 'Rose, Rose I Love You' almost comes
across as a parody of a parody. The comedy is more outlandish,
the plot even more inane and the character of Keith Lui enters
a new stratosphere of eccentricity. The immediate point that
needs to be made, therefore, is that if you didn't like the
first film, it's highly unlikely you'll enjoy this. If,
however, you enjoyed the original, there are elements that
remain strong in this follow up. The humour is surreal, yet
often engaging in a kind of baffling way, while the all-star
cast truly seem to relish their time in front of the camera -
this is a quality that helps the entire viewing experience.
One advantage that this otherwise inferior sequel has over its
predecessor is the chance for Tony Leung to have a perfect
foil in the shape of Kenny Bee. A performer who is rarely
anything but engaging, Bee helps to anchor Leung's insanity to
this universe at least.
'Rose,
Rose I Love You' is less of a straight lampoon of 60s Hong
Kong cinema and more of a genuine attempt to harness the
spiritedness of the original, concocting a insane brew of
comedy and action. The few instances of combat that are
present will no doubt pacify the many viewers who will find 90
minutes of Cantonese madness to be difficult to swallow.
However, no matter what can be said of the film, there has to
be a certain admiration for its sheer vim and refusal to be
shackled to any one genre.
Rating:
 
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