Cast
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Shu Qi
as Ah Bu
Jackie Chan
as C.N. Chan
Emil Chau
as L.W. Lo
Tony Leung
as Albert
Richie Jen
as Long Yi
Bradley James Allan
as Alan
Tats Lau Yee-Tat
as Chan's Butler
Ken Lo Wai-Kwong
as Lo's Bodyguard
William Duen Wai-Lun
as Lo's Bodyguard
Kwan Yung
as Lo's Bodyguard
William Chan Yuk-Choh
as Lo's Bodyguard
Elaine Jin Yan-Ling
as Bu's Mother
Chan Chung-Yung
as Bu's Father
Carmen Soo
as Gloria
Daniel Wu
as Photographer's Assistant
Crew
Director
- Vincent Kok Tak-Chiu
Producer
- Raymond Chow
- Jackie Chan
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Adventure/Action/Comedy/Romance film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Gorgeous distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Vincent Kok Tak-Chiu brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1999, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Gorgeous took approximately 12 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 119 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 165 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 1210 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1999, when this film was released:
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Gorgeous shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Wrath of Vajra, which focuses more on action than character development, Gorgeous offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Fist That Kills and Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan explore similar territory, Gorgeous stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: February 12, 1999
- Runtime: 1h 59m
