Today’s quick review: Project A 2. To rid Hong Kong of corruption, Sergeant Dragon Ma (Jackie Chan) goes undercover as deputy to Superintendent Chun (David Lam), a crooked cop with too much power to take down any other way. Dragon starts cleaning up first the police department and then the streets. But in doing so, he runs afoul of not only Chun, but a rebel faction, a group of Imperial agents from the mainlande, and a band of vengeful pirates.
Project A 2 is a martial arts action comedy starring Jackie Chan. The sequel to Project A picks up with Dragon Ma’s transfer from the coast guard to the city police, kicking off a massive anti-corruption operation that turns the city on its head. Project A 2 retains its predecessor’s sharp action, robust story, and flashes of humor. However, its missing cast members and slower start make it a slight step down from the original.
Project A 2 takes a more serious tack than Jackie Chan’s other movies. It still has a fair amount of comedy, but the jokes are concentrated in a few specific scenes. Instead, the story takes center stage. Dragon’s investigation gives the plot a strong hook, while the domino effect on the other factions gives it unusual staying power. Combined with Chan’s sharp and creative stunt work, this is enough to make Project A 2 a solid movie.
Still, Project A 2 is missing some of the best features of its predecessor. Yuen Biao and Sammo Hung are sorely missed; while the new supporting cast does a fine job, they do not have the same chemistry as the original trio. The film also saves its best action scenes for the end, causing the film to have a slower start. None of these issues keep Project A 2 from standing on its own feet, but they are worth noting if you’re a fan of the original.
Project A 2 is a worthwhile pick for any fans of martial arts action. It doesn’t have quite the same humor as Jackie Chan’s usual formula, but the plot is unusually well-developed, and the stunts are as strong as ever. Those looking for a fast-moving action flick with impressive stunts should look no further. Those looking for a more outrageous comedy should temper their expectations.
For an even more engaging take on the same character, try the original Project A. For a darker historical crime drama about rooting out police corruption, try Gun City. For a more modern Hong Kong crime drama with a darker tone, try Chasing the Dragon. For intrigue and martial arts in a historical Chinese setting, try The Final Master.
7.1 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.0 for skillful action and a solid plot.