Today’s quick review: Police Story 2. Demoted for the property damage he caused while arresting Chu Tao (Yuen Chor), Officer Ka-Kui Chan (Jackie Chan) contemplates leaving the force to spend time with his girlfriend May (Maggie Cheung). But before long, Ka-Kui is called back in to catch a bomber threatening to blow up a building if he doesn’t receive $10 million. Meanwhile, Cho Tao hires John Ko (Charlie Cho) to harass Ka-Kui and May.
Police Story 2 is a crime drama and action movie with comedy elements. Jackie Chan reprises his role as a loyal Hong Kong cop with a knack for getting in trouble. Police Story 2 deals with both the aftermath of the first film and a brand new story. The movie balances its time between three connected subplots, managing to work them all into a cohesive whole. The result is an action movie with big stunts and an unusually strong story.
Police Story 2 is a worthy successor to the original. It retains the original’s somewhat more serious tone, putting the police investigation front and center. However, the movie still finds time for comedy, building on the character dynamics established in the first film without undercutting the tension. The movie is also successful with its action, featuring destructive stunts and well-choreographed fights that keep the film moving.
Police Story 2 is a solid pick for fans of either Jackie Chan or action movies in general. It is not quite as innovative or impactful as the original Police Story, but it manages to keep the original’s best features while telling its own story. Those who are looking for more comedy may want to try one of Chan’s other films, but anyone willing to invest in a more action-oriented plot will find it to be well worth watching.
For a more comedic sequel, try Supercop or First Strike. For Jackie Chan as a police officer in a historical setting, try Project A or Project A 2. For another modern action comedy from Chan, try Twin Dragons or The Accidental Spy.
7.1 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.0 to 7.5 for strong action and a nicely balanced story.