The Inspector Wears Skirts 4 (1992) (BLU-RAY REVIEW)
Director: Wellson Chin
Starring: Cynthia Khan, Moon Lee, Sandra Kwan Yue Ng
RATED: UR/REGION A/1:85/1080P/NUMBER OF DISCS 1
AVAILABLE FROM 88 Films
Director Wellson Chin’s The Inspector Wears Skirts 4 is a delightful dive into the dizzying world of female empowerment wrapped in a vibrant, comedic action film that has maintained a unique charm since its 1992 release. The 88 Films Blu-ray release brings back the vivacious energy of this cult classic, showcasing a blend of brawn and brains that feels even fresher in this restored format.
From the opening scene, the film bursts forth with color, laughter, and a buoyant spirit that’s bound to resonate with audiences of any era. The plot follows a spirited police team, despite only have a few OG cast members left, the movie is action-packed with equal parts tenacity and hilarity. It’s a familiar setup, but the screenplay elevates it beyond a mere formula through its sharp, witty dialogue and well-placed comedic moments. You can’t help but grin as you watch the characters navigate the chaos around them, embodying the ethos that strength comes in many forms.
The themes of female empowerment are palpably woven through the fabric of the movie. As our protagonists take on the challenges ahead—and occasionally trip over their own shoelaces—their camaraderie shines. There’s a warmth radiating from these female leads, reflecting friendship, struggle, and triumph. The film celebrates not just the independence of women but also how they uplift one another, and it resonates on a core level. It’s uplifting to see such dynamic portrayals of women, especially within a genre that’s traditionally littered with male-centric narratives. You might be turned away by the new lead and the amount of new cast, but all works well here. This one stays funny and shockingly bloody in spots, as we deal with a plot around a new group that tries to get the original team together to help them before the team gets shutdown.
The performances are nothing short of electrifying. With the ensemble cast delivering consistent energy and a palpable chemistry, it’s clear they had a blast making this film. Special mention must be made of the performances from the leads, whose comedic timing is impeccable. They infuse their characters with a vibrant spirit that draws you in, making you cheer for their successes and laugh at their misadventures.
Chin’s direction breathes life into every scene. His deft handling of pacing ensures that the film zips along with enough thrills and laughs to keep audiences engaged throughout. The action sequences, impressively choreographed, combine slapstick and martial arts to exhilarating effect, capturing the eye while evoking genuine belly laughs. This mash-up of genres is executed with precision and playfulness, leaving a lasting impression.
The score—both quirky and fun—intertwines perfectly with the film’s tone. It adds an extra layer of exhilaration to the action and highlights those delightful comedic beats. It’s a joy to see how the music complements the ebullient nature of the film, further enhancing the viewing experience.
Visually, the Blu-ray release is a feast for the eyes, with 88 Films having meticulously polished the film to bring forth vibrant colors and sharp details that were likely tempered in previous versions. The cinematography captures the bustling energy of the environment and the characters, effectively immersing you within their world.
Though The Inspector Wears Skirts 4 is exuberantly entertaining, it’s not without its flaws. Certain plot points may stretch believability, and some comedic tropes feel dated. However, it’s hard to let a few missteps detract from the overall joy the film provides. The exuberant spirit, after all, shines through, and those who lean into its playful nature are sure to find themselves thoroughly entertained.
Extras
- 2K RESTORATION FROM THE ORIGINAL CAMERA NEGATIVE
- Original Cantonese Mono with English Subtitles
- English Mono dub
- Audio Commentary by Frank Djeng
- Stills Gallery
- Hong Kong Trailer
