Big Trouble is one of my favorite movies with Kurt Russell.
I equate it as equal or better than Escape from L.A. and Escape from New York. The campiness of all three movies is what drives them to cult status.
The reason Big Trouble in Little China edges out the competition is because of the martial arts twist. Few movies up to 1986 used a martial arts theme in a comedic setting.
The supernatural battle in Chinatown directed by John Carpenter is the one scene that stands out and ties the whole movie together.
The absurd hats, Kurt Russell as a tough truck driver, flashing lightning, and the choreographed fighting is almost too much to handle for the viewer. The pairing of John Carpenter and Kurt Russell always results in an entertaining movie and the audience is always treated to some serious laughs. Watching the behind the scenes really proves my theory that they collaborated well together and the movie shows that during each scene.
I also like that the studio took a chance on Kim Cattrall. I know that this film did not jump start her career, but I would like to think it helped.
The movie created a subculture for a video game, comic book series, movie collectibles, and even a board game. The film's roller coaster of fun throughout the movie makes you begging for more as the last credits started to roll.
The good news is there might be a sequel with the Rock as a new character. How cool would that be?
Kevin Lazzari, owner of Video Stop, is reviewing movies for the Fitzhugh.
Big Trouble in Little China (1986) is available on DVD, Blu-ray and for digital download.
