Movie spotlight
Long Arm of the Law
A group of desperate Chinese criminals hope to make a quick, effortless score in Hong Kong. Things go afoul, and the gang must hide out until the heat dies down, besmirched with the blood of an undercover cop.
Insights
Plot Summary
A humble police constable, often underestimated and clumsy, finds himself in over his head when he stumbles upon a major crime syndicate. Despite facing ridicule from his peers and danger from the criminals, he must find a way to bring them to justice. Along the way, he enlists the help of his brothers and a tough cop to overcome the odds and prove his worth.
Critical Reception
The film was a commercial success in Hong Kong, praised for its blend of action, comedy, and social commentary. It is considered a classic of Hong Kong cinema, lauded for its performances and its engaging storyline that balances humor with thrilling sequences.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its effective mix of slapstick comedy and thrilling action sequences.
Michael Hui's performance as the underdog constable was a highlight.
A well-paced crime-comedy that resonated with audiences for its relatable protagonist and exciting plot.
Google audience: Audience reception data on Google is not readily available, but the film was a significant box office success in Hong Kong upon its release.
Fun Fact
The film was a massive box office hit in Hong Kong, becoming the highest-grossing film of 1984 in the territory, and cemented Michael Hui's status as a comedy superstar.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources