Kung Fu Hustle: Axe-Kickin' Edition

Never mind the daft name for this latest edition of a spectacular movie because Kung Fu Hustle is one of the best action films to come out in years. Sing (director Stephen Chow) waltzes into a somewhat peaceful village named Pig Sty Alley posing as a member of the feared Axe Gang and manages to jeopardise the lives of those who live there when the real gang shows up to put an end to his charade. Little does anyone know that the village also possesses three kung fu warriors and soon the battle between Pig Sty and the Axe Gang increases dramatically as more masters are unveiled and the fight sequences reach a level of incredible absurdity. This 2004 movie is often funny, clever and entertaining, and features some of the greatest action sequences in recent years. However, this DVD might not be your best option, as the original American release had deleted scenes and outtakes, but this newer version does have some good featurettes on the stunt choreography, set construction and costume design the original doesn’t. Apart from two short Comedy Central interviews with Chow, this DVD actually takes away previous extras to make room for new ones, hardly living up to the fuss of an "axe-kicking” edition. With a sequel to Kung Fu Hustle on its way, a deluxe double-disc might be next on tap but don’t wait that long to see this.