Classic Duo’s Space Age Adventure

Read Time:3 Minute, 46 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Road to Hong Kong
Passed –

Genre: Comedy, Musical, Sci-Fi
Year Released: 1962, 2024 Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 31m
Director(s): Norman Panama
Writer(s): Norman Panama, Melvin Frank
Cast: Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, Joan Collins, Dorothy Lamour, Robert Morley, Walter Gotell, Peter Sellers, Jerry Colonna, Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, David Niven, Pat O'Brien
Where To Watch: available January 9, 2024; pre-order here www.kinolorber.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: In THE ROAD TO HONG KONG, the iconic comedic duo of Bob Hope and Bing Crosby take their final bow together, venturing into a realm far that feels familiar yet is also miles from the previous “Road” films. This 1962 endeavor presents a unique blend of their time-tested humor with a sci-fi twist, propelling them into an intergalactic intrigue with espionage and unexpected turns.

After a decade-long interlude, the film reacquaints us with Hope and Crosby, balancing a respectful nod to their legacy and a daring leap into new territory. The duo's chemistry, a cornerstone of their prior triumphs, flickers here with a different flame. It’s a mixed bag here, sometimes feeling like they never missed a beat and then feeling like the series should have stayed in limbo after all those years. This may be unfair, as it compares this film to the others in the series and not so much as its own.

Within the franchise, THE ROAD TO HONG KONG carves out a unique niche, boldly embracing the espionage and science-fiction genres, reflecting the era's cinematic trends. Its switch back to black and white after its predecessor's technicolor palette and the diminished presence of Dorothy Lamour signal a departure from series traditions. Joan Collins fills the void by stepping into a pivotal role but can't quite mirror the same magnetic rapport.

This film, rooted in the duo's comedic evolution since 1940, demonstrates their knack for reinventing humor. Their signature meta-comedy is woven throughout, though it doesn’t quite recapture the original series' spirit. The plot, an amalgam of Russian espionage and a space race, serves as a backdrop to their classic antics, which retain their endearing charm despite a hint of predictability.

THE ROAD TO HONG KONG may not outshine its predecessors but firmly anchors itself within the legendary series. Including cameos by luminaries like Peter Sellers, Dean Martin, and Frank Sinatra injects a layer of star-studded appeal.

The film still plays a critical role in the Hope-Crosby anthology. It showcases the series' progression from satirizing spy films to venturing into sci-fi realms. The guest appearances and Lamour's cameo add depth to the storyline. The behind-the-scenes details, including the production in England and the off-camera bonding between Hope and Crosby, add a layer of authenticity to the film.

THE ROAD TO HONG KONG may not be the pinnacle of the Hope and Crosby narrative, but it is a testament to their versatility and enduring appeal in the comedy genre. It encapsulates their ability to adapt to the evolving cinematic landscape while maintaining the essence of their legendary status. For enthusiasts of the series and admirers of the duo's comedic brilliance, the film offers a nostalgic mix of self-referential humor and chemistry that continues to resonate, making it a delightful addition to any movie collection.

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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