Winners and Sinners

Winners and Sinners is an action-comedy film from Hong Kong that was released in 1983, featuring the powerhouse comedic partnership of Sammo Kam-Bo Hung, Jackie Chan, and John Sham. Not only was Sammo an actor in the film, but he was also the director of this rollercoaster ride. The movie, which serves as the first entry in the popular "Lucky Stars" series, establishes the uniqueness of the Hong Kong action-comedy genre, and offers a delightful blend of hilarity, stunts, martial arts, and camaraderie.

The film revolves around five characters who share varied backgrounds and first cross paths in a Hong Kong prison. Each character has their unique quirks, which adds some humor to the plot. Known in the film as "Teapot" (Sammo Hung), "Exhaust Pipe" (Richard Ng), "Vaseline" (Charlie Chin), "Rookie" (Stanley Fung) and "Curly" (John Shum), the unlikely companions find themselves bonding during their imprisonment. When they are finally released, they decide to stick together, eventually renting a dilapidated abode in order to live as roommates and start their lives anew.

"Winners and Sinners" is not merely about bungling ex-convicts trying to adjust to civilian life. There are some interesting sub-plots revolving around a counterfeit money racket which NBA player James Tien heads. This subplot serves as the backdrop for the main storyline, and it introduces the character played by Jackie Chan—an honest and hardworking cop who is also on the counterfeiters' trail. In fact, it is through this sub-plot that the group gets embroiled in a larger crime scenario.

What makes this movie particularly engaging is its balanced use of comedy and action. The film laughs at itself and allows the audience to have fun. The characters are humorously fumbling but remain likable throughout. They often find themselves in hilarious situations that are as much a part of the plot as the action scenes.

Talking about the action, it is in true Jackie Chan and Sammo Hung fashion. Although considered a Jackie Chan film, Chan is more of a supporting character, showcasing his trademark martial arts and acrobatics and serving as the action center of the movie. One chase sequence involving roller-skates particularly stands out for its impressiveness and humor.

In the same vein, Sammo Hung, apart from donning the director's cap, offers his unique blend of martial arts and comedy. Hung's precision in fight choreography truly makes for visual spectacle and resonates with the humor laced throughout the film. While Chan and Hung bring in the martial arts action, Richard Ng brings in most of the laughs. His comedic timing is phenomenal, and he often steals the scene with his slapstick comedy and facial expressions.

Equally delightful is John Sham, whose unique character quirks add to the film's overall charm. All the characters in the film are portrayed as genuine, likable people who are just trying to make the best of their lives despite their past mistakes. This endearing portrayal of characters helps the audience root for them through their various misadventures.

Unconventional and uproarious, Winners and Sinners also has a bit of romance. Actress Cherie Chung plays a charming love interest, who stumbles upon the quirky group and adds to the comedic and romantic elements of the film.

The film's acting performances, layered with humor and positivity, perfectly blend with the plot's unpredictability and excitement. Enhanced by top-notch fight choreography and breathtaking stunts, the film is a perfect introduction to Hong Kong's action-comedy genre.

In conclusion, Winners and Sinners offers an entertaining ride filled with laughter, action, camaraderie, and a touch of romance. From being former convicts to getting involved in a counterfeit money scam, the journey of these five men creates an enjoyable action-comedy film. Whether you are a fan of Sammo Hung, Jackie Chan, or the broader genre of action-comedies, Winners and Sinners is a must-watch film from the early '80s Asian cinema.