How to Get Rich by Fung Shui? (1998)
Reviewed by: Brian Thibodeau on 2005-01-24
Summary: Superstitions hold firm after the handover
Fascinating mockumentary intended to address the late 90’s malaise that affected large numbers in the former colony. “People are suffering from life. And many people have lost their directions,” says host and comic actor Lui (TROUBLESOME NIGHT 1-3) who, with earnest real-life “geomancy consultant” Lee, races about the city and surrounding area uncovering all the legends, superstitions, practitioners and locations that might help the lost citizens of transitional Hong Kong reclaim the moral spirit that shaped their stunning city over the previous three decades. The duo is aided by a sizable contingent of second stringers from the HK film community. Kiddy ghosts, haunted hotels, the Marriage Stone, the 60 Gods of the Year, proper pet selection, lucky parts of the city, betting parlours with bad feng shui (which improve your odds of winning), folks whose “dual eyes” enable them to see ghosts, colors to wear while gambling, when not to play Pai Kau, and why Chow Yun-Fat is wood. It’s all here and then some, and whether it’s taken in good faith or as propaganda, the film’s urgency, sincerity and style are infectious. By the final reel, when what appear to be two minor miracles are revealed to the world, you’ll likely find yourself hoping the best for one of the world’s most glorious cities.
Reviewer Score: 9