There's no denying that I am a fan of Stephen Chow's style of comedy. Kung Fu Hustle has that perfect tone of a spoof film, and knows exactly how to use certain tropes of the genre it is parodying in order to create humor. I love the exaggerated way that kung fu works in this film, and how the most unexpected people or items can be dangerous. It's amplified to such a level that at times it feels like a live-action cartoon, and for me that is always good for a laugh. When I sit and watch a movie at home by myself, even a solid joke can struggle to get much more than a chuckle from me, but Kung Fu Hustle had me laughing out loud consistently. The other thing that Stephen Chow understands, is that even the best comedy needs plot and structure. There is a solid story in this film with genuine stakes, heroes and villains, and all the other hallmarks of a good narrative. I also appreciate his casting choices, because he doesn't go with all the obvious actors for each role, and allows for some unexpected heroes.

I must admit, though, that Kung Fu Hustle contains one of my biggest pet peeves about movies. I always struggle when there are people in a story with seemingly limitless powers, or at least power that doesn't appear to adhere to any set of rules. While it's good for some comedic effect, I never get a feel for what move is more powerful than another. The final fight keeps escalating to a point that it feels like there is never a satisfying conclusion, because they both seem to recover from even the most devastating blows. I know it's supposed to be silly and over-the-top, so I didn't get that annoyed by this aspect, but it is a tad unclear when the fight will truly end and someone will win. My only other nitpick with Kung Fu Hustle was how late they brought the main character into his heroic role. His redemption arc starts so far into the movie that it barely feels earned. These are quibbles with an otherwise amazingly enjoyable film. I might not find Kung Fu Hustle perfect, but any movie that entertains me this much is one I'll watch again any time.