Kung Fu Hustle and Sherlock Jr.

There are several things that he films “Sherlock Jr.” and “Kung Fu Hustle” have in common. Several of these examples are shown in Roger Ebert’s review of Kung Fu Hustle. The review brings up several of the qualities of “Kung Fu Hustle” which establish the film as both a kung fu film and a comedy. Many of the comedic qualities of the film are the same qualities that can be found in several of Buster Keaton’s films, including “Sherlock Jr.”

First and foremost, both of these are elaborate comedies built around slapstick humor. Most of the comedy from these films comes from watching the protagonists escape from seemingly impossible situations unharmed. The films are filled with unusual situations and surprises that keep the audience guessing, while at the same time laughing about the actions onscreen.

Several of the actions in these films aren’t even possible, but the filmmakers’ use of innovative technology keeps the illusion going and adds to the comedy of these films. As Ebert says in his review “The characters have overcome the laws of gravity and physics. To be able to leap into the air, spin in a circle and kick six, seven, eight, nine enemies before landing in a graceful crouch is enormously gratifying.” Despite the fact that technology is brought in, though, the effect on the audience is not lost. Ebert also brings up this idea when he says “the trickery doesn't diminish his skill, because despite all the wires and effects in the world, a martial arts actor must be a superb athlete.” Keaton used special effects often in his films too. While he did many of his own stunts, special effects had to be brought in for certain shots, such as in “Sherlock Jr.” when he walks into a film screen.

Both of the filmmakers have several traits in common, too. They both take full control over their films, as directors, producers, writers, and lead actors. They are in full control of the film and they know what their audience likes to see. This is an important quality since it establishes part of the reason why they share so much in common. Both men were fearless and willing to do whatever it took to make their audience smile.