House of Fury (2005)
Reviewed by: PAUL MARTINEZ on 2006-02-05
Summary: Above avereage light-fare romp
House Of Fury isn't going to make many top 10 lists but I still found it enjoyable. Stephen Fung has a way to go, but I wouldn't write him off after seing this. Someone commented earlier he is no Johnny To or Wong Kar Fai. I don't think he's trying to be. Not every film maker wants to make thought provoking, controversial or socially conscience films. Some just want to make something people can watch and escape for about 90 minutes.
The martial arts was as good as you can expect considering who the participants were. Unfortunately there is a shortage of "real" martial arts actors right now. Mr. Wo Ping does what he can with the talent he's given.
Acting, which isn't this casts strong point either (with the obviously exception of Anthony Wong) was fair, nothing too horrible. Gillian Chung despite being very easy on the eyes has not shown much growth in her acting skills. This movie would've benefitted from having Charlene Choi play a larger role. I have come to enjoy her much more in that comedic role she tends to play. Michael Wong's role as the heavy was expectadly bad. He HAS to be the worst actor I've ever seen. It's gotten to the point where I seek out his films just to laugh at his performance.
The story was ok, no suprises but it all made sense. I find it hard to be over critical of a film that does take itself too seriously. House of Fury kind of reminds me of the other Twins movies. They're no gems but they do have some shine.
Reviewer Score: 6