Goal-Oriented Action

Read Time:4 Minute, 12 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Champions (Boh ngau)
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Genre: Comedy, Sport
Year Released: 1983, 2024 Eureka Entertainment Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 31m
Director(s): Brandy Yuen
Writer(s): Brandy Yuen
Cast: Yuen Biao, Cheung Kwok-Keung, Moon Lee, Dick Wei, Chang Ching-Po, Eddy Ko Hung, Gam Biu, Tong Tin-Hei
Language: Cantonese with English subtitles
Where To Watch: available now UK www.eurekavideo.co.uk, US www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: With an electrifying mix of martial arts finesse and soccer expertise, THE CHAMPIONS flies onto the screen, delivering an action-packed spectacle that meshes two spirited disciplines. Under Brandy Yuen’s direction, this film recalls an era before the vibes of SHAOLIN SOCCER took hold, giving Yuen Biao a platform to display his acrobatic skills within an innovative narrative framework. While the choreography pulsates with energy and the action sequences crackle with intensity, the film’s journey to becoming a revered piece of Hong Kong cinema took some time due to its patchwork narrative and somewhat shallow character arcs.

In THE CHAMPIONS, the city becomes a playground for Lee Tong, portrayed by Biao, whose life is upended from simplicity to urban chaos following an incident. Spotted by the well-known soccer player Suen (Kwok-Keung Cheung), Tong’s raw soccer talents quickly catapulted him into the limelight. However, his rise through the ranks is thwarted by the cruel soccer star King, a role inhabited with delicious malice by Dick Wei. King’s disdain for Tong leads to humiliating ordeals that, rather than breaking him, harden his resolve and propel him toward a rival team.

The film doesn’t always keep its narrative momentum, occasionally detouring into comedic realms that clash with the prevailing tone of high-stakes action. An engaging subplot involving Moon Lee as a cunning lottery scammer, Fanny, promises intrigue but fades into ambiguity, leaving potential story threads dangling. Additionally, a bizarre yet comical dance-turned-fight scene between Dick Wei and Kwok-Keung Cheung, although entertaining, shifts the film’s focus from its core action, muddling its tonal consistency.

The screenplay weaves elements from traditional underdog tales with the stylistic flourishes of martial arts cinema, tracing Tong’s transformation from an inexperienced newcomer to a celebrated soccer star. This fusion of genres injects fresh energy into the storyline but sometimes skims over the more profound narrative potential that could have given the film a more substantial emotional impact.

Despite its stylistic flair and dynamic action sequences, THE CHAMPIONS also occasionally struggles to consistently engage viewers emotionally, primarily due to shallow character development. The physical performances, although impressive, tend to eclipse the deeper connections that would lend more gravitas to the film’s climactic moments.

Overall, while THE CHAMPIONS may not seamlessly integrate its comedic and dramatic elements, it stands out as an inventive and enjoyable film within its genre. The originality and energy of the action sequences bring a distinctive twist to the sports cinema landscape, offering a compelling watch for those fascinated by the crossover of martial arts and athletic competition. With its Blu-ray release enhancing visual and dynamic aspects, THE CHAMPIONS is an essential watch for enthusiasts eager to experience combat and competitive sports convergence.

Bonus Materials:
Limited edition O-Card slipcase featuring new artwork by Darren Wheeling
1080p HD presentation on Blu-ray from a brand new 2K restoration
Original Cantonese audio and optional English dub tracks (original mono presentations)
Optional English subtitles, newly translated for this release
Brand new audio commentary by East Asian film expert Frank Djeng (NY Asian Film Festival)
Brand new audio commentary by action cinema experts Mike Leeder and Arne Venema
Brand new featurette by CFK looking at the 1987 Hong Kong celebrity football/soccer team that featured several Hong Kong legends, including Jackie Chan and Andy Lau
Andrew Heskins on The Champions – brand new interview with film critic Andrew Heskins (eastern Kicks)
Reversible sleeve featuring original poster artwork
Trailer
PLUS: A limited edition collector’s booklet featuring new writing on the film by James Oliver

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[photo courtesy of EUREKA ENTERTAINMENT, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

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