A Chinese Odyssey always was intended as a two parter so why they decided to release a third part without Stephen Chow is beyond me. Other than the obvious cash in of course. If like me you love Stephen Chow's work then forget that there is even a third part.
This second part doesn't waste time in continuing the story. No summary of the first part which would be have been very welcome. Since the plot of this part is even more chaotic and confusing. But even then everything is still as enjoyable as the first part. The typical Stephen Chow humor is solid and hilarious as ever although I must admit that the first movie was funnier. But that is not criticism just a matter of taste and preference. Again Stephen Chow and director Jeffrey Lau succeed in combining different genres. Although it has to be said that they did a better job of this in Pandora's Box. The serious love theme isn't as convincing as it was in the first part (mainly because of the confusing plot). Despite this flaw everything is wrapped up nicely to everybody's satisfaction!
If you ever had doubts about Stephen Chow's brilliance surely A Chinese Odyssey should prove to you that his Shaolin Soccer and Kung Fu Hustle weren't flukes. After having seen many of his movies it is safe to say he has been very consistent and perhaps not been given enough credit for what he has brought to Hong Kong Cinema.
A Chinese Odyssey Part One: Pandora's Box
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