Big Trouble in Little China (Single Disc Edition) Reviews



Amazon.com Customer Reviews

And a whole lot more! - Review written on July 07, 2008
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5

A faint, pleasant echo from an era when we had less to worry about. Yes, it's a silly movie with a fluffy, 'bouncy' little plot (and sub-plot), but it's fun to watch Kim Cattrall and Kurt Russell perform when they were both *so* much younger... James Hong is excellent... His villain provides "a whole lot more" than just 'timelessness' and 'inscrutability' on tap. Nice relaxing fun.
Another Carpenter classic - Review written on July 04, 2008
* * * *
Rating: 4 out of 5

Fortunately I have managed to miss this film over the last 22 years. I'm saying that because I suspect if I had seen it when it first came out I wouldn't have appreciated it. Now though, following Kill Bill and many other martial arts epics this is a refreshing change from the usual Hollywood stodge.

Kurt Russell is superb as Jack, a wise-cracking truck driver who accidently stumbles upon an extremly unlikely plot revolving around two girls with green eyes and an ancient magician who is seeking to gain ultimate power by marrying one or both of the girls. As intimated above the magician, who is called Lo Pan, has a vague similarity to Mei Pei in Kill Bill. Kim Cattrall is one of the two leading actresses, who is now of course much more famous for 'Sex and the City'.

This is all done with tongue firmly in cheek. Most of the time Kurt Russell uses a John Wayne voice which is completely inappropriate, but somehow its perfect for this film. Frequently the film is very funny and Russell's character is in general the butt of most of the jokes. The special effects are beginning to look dated now, but given that this film was probably made on a relatively low budget they actually stand up remarkably well.

This is a throughly entertaining film.
Big Trouble in Little China - A Perfection in Camp - Review written on June 13, 2008
* * * *
Rating: 4 out of 5
3 customers found this review helpful.

Big Trouble in Little China fits the definition of a cult film. Not popular on its initial release - being blocked by other summer films of 1986 such as ALIENS - it has since developed a following which it most certainly deserves. John Carpenter purposely made this a B-movie and I commend him for that, because it certainly is a blast and the chemistry between characters with Kurt Russell at the center is mostly entertaining.

The plot revolves around an ancient feud between two separate Chinese groups that has come all the way from its homeland to San Francisco which witless, wisecracking trucker Jack Burton (the always amusing Kurt Russell) suddenly finds himself right in the middle of. With his friend Wang Chi - a skilled Chinese martial artist who owns a restraint in Little China - he is pulled into a fight between good and evil and to save his truck! An ancient sorcerer - Lo Pan - needs to marry a girl with green eyes and then sacrifice her to lift a curse and retain his young form, or else be a frail old man for centuries to come; only being able to take his true form for brief periods of time. When Wang Chi's fiancée is abducted by Lo Pan's Three Storms - warriors possessing the powers of a storm - it is up to Jack and Wang to save her and end the centuries old conflict.

As I previously mentioned this film was intentionally made a B-movie and the cast obviously had a lot of fun making it, with lots of tongue in cheek dialogue and intentional mistakes. It all adds to the campy fun that is Big Trouble in little China Town. The best part about it comes from the chemistry between Jack Burton and Wang Chi. You'd think Russell's character would be on top of things being the muscled American toting the gun, but Chi is the real hero with all his martial arts and fighting skills, but Burton never seems to get that constantly puffing his chest believing he is in fact the hero and Chi is the sidekick. This is the main humor that comes from this film, and I found that aspect incredibly creative considering it was a very unique idea that many people didn't get at the time but I believe the idea has begun to catch on and people can now appreciate that humor aspect of Big Trouble in Little China.

The film is great entertainment and will have you smiling at its foolishness throughout and it comes highly recommended by me if you're someone who can just sit back and enjoy this masterpiece in camp. It can be found in five dollar bargain bins across the United States so just pick it up if you get the chance. Get the popcorn out, turn off the lights and enjoy.
Sorry but This movie is Retarded - Review written on June 05, 2008
*
Rating: 1 out of 5
12 customers found this review not to be helpful.
I'm a Kurt Russell Fan. I had never seen this movie and recently checked it out and its beyond Horrible. The comedy does not exist.(I cant remember one funny part) The acting besides Russell is bad, and even he didnt seem to fit well in the role. The plot is stupid and beyond farfetched. I have a pretty wild imagination but from start to finish my only thoughts on this movie were PLEASE HURRY UP AND END.

Will never watch again. THIS MOVIE SUCKS
Big Trouble In Little China - Review written on April 20, 2008
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5

This movie has action,comedy,romance,suspence all rolled into one.Kurt Russell is a great actor and he plays his part excellent to a tee.
Big Trouble is Big Fun - Review written on April 17, 2008
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5

I have to admit that I am an unabashed fan of this film. The quotes are great, the Chinese mysticism intriguing and Kim Cattrall all wet is thrilling as Jack notes: "You have to stop rubbing up against because I can't concentrate.."

I first had this movie on VHS, don't remember why or how I got it, but nearly wore it out. It almost disappeared in a ball of "green flame... GREEN flame." Kurt Russell and Dennis Dun are both wonderful separately, but together they are a complete hoot! Kurt is a much under appreciated actor and I thought he was phenonmenal in "Miracle."

This is the best really FUN movie in the last 30 years and has no rival except perhaps "Galaxy Quest" with Tim Allen and Sigourney Weaver. That would make a great sequel... Galaxy Quest meets Big Trouble. Maybe John Carpenter would direct. If you hate karate and mysticism, this is not the movie for you. But if you can let go and be truly wacky, strap in for a fun ride!!
The Matrix meets Indiana Jones meets Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon = a lot of fun - Review written on March 25, 2008
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5
1 customer found this review helpful.

Big Trouble In Little China is one of the first popcorn flicks I remeber seeing in the theater. It had action, kung-fu and horror. John Carpenter made one of his best flicks to date. If the film was releaded today it would be a huge hit as it would star Jet Li,Cole Hauser and other action stars of this era.
THE CHECKS IN THE MAIL ! - Review written on March 19, 2008
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5
1 customer found this review helpful.

i saw this movie when it first came out.i was a young marine with alot of far east experience so i love it from the start.the part were burton askes " you speak any savvy english ? " had me rolling.i had used a line like that on port call in hong kong! the dialogue while camp reminded me of the type of talk you hear in those old private eye movies. way too many great lines here.6 demon bag wish i had one ! i never get tired of this one.
Great Fun - Review written on March 02, 2008
* * * *
Rating: 4 out of 5
1 customer found this review helpful.

This movie is great fun! It is non-stop action with a good enough plot they don't need all the blood and gore to keep things moving.
Enjoy yourself and prepare to laugh! - Review written on February 18, 2008
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5
2 customers found this review helpful.

Wait - before we get started - if anyone out there tries to take this movie seriously, then shame on you. You're probably the same type of person of watched 'It's A Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World' and said "But how could they go that far and never stop for gas?"

BTILC is a classic from start to finish! It's a movie that was made dripping in sarcasm and stereo-types and done so in style. The characters are supposed to be tongue-in-cheek. They're supposed to take themselves too seriously. They're supposed to be idiots and that's the thrill of this ride.

Regardless of what is happening on the screen, if you really want to have fun, watch the facial expressions and reactions that the actors give when they deliver their corny lines - it'll have you laughing so hard - it hurts. The timing of their dialogue and delivery IS this movie.

There is no reason to spout off details that will ruin the movie for you, but believe me when I tell you that you don't want to miss a second of this movie. The special effects are weak by today's standards, but even they work well when you watch it in 2008. The characters are priceless and as campy as we could every wanted them to be. Kurt Russell steals the show but he is supported by such a gifted cast of morons and fools that we never grow tired of any of them.

Here is one of those movies that never does allow you to get bored. It's a non-stop roller coaster ride that slaps you in the face every time you try to take it seriously. This is a wonderful adventure filled Sci-Fi from start to end but it's the stupid, quick and timely one-liners that will have you slapping your knee and begging for more. "Trade -ya!"

See this movie and I dare any of you to walk through Chinatown in one of the bigger cities (New York or San Francisco) and not find yourself peeking down one of the alleys, to see if there are creatures lurking about. Nothing beats a hardcore gang of china-men thugs who wear cowboy holsters and six-shooters. Go ahead... see if you can cut a beer bottle in half with a meat cleaver!

Thank you John Carpenter - this was one of your best.
"Jack Burton always says...." Watch this movie, you will love it - Review written on February 18, 2008
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5
1 customer found this review helpful.

Made in a time when special effects were simpler and Kim Cattrall was much prettier. Kind of campy and very entertaining. Not predictable tripe like most of the movies of the time. Very interesting plot and artfully made. I love this movie and will watch it often in the years to come. I am very pleased with this purchase.
Funniest Movie Ever! - Review written on December 02, 2007
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5
1 customer found this review helpful.

Jack Burton (Kurt Russel) in this Indiana Jones style romp thru San Francisco's Chinatown is ducking and weaving Oriental forces of Darkness in the form of Lo Pan (James Hong) the "Shadow Emperor". It's a wild ride through one death-defying challenge after another; complete with magicians, sorcerers and martial arts action. Victor Wong is brilliant as Egg Shen the tour bus-driving sorcerer. Battles as they venture into the mysterious depths of Lo Pan's lair to save the girl and get Jack's truck back.
You're not a real American unless you love this movie - Review written on August 20, 2007
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5
1 customer found this review helpful.

Big Trouble in Little China is easily one of the best movies ever made. John Carpenter is a genius and Kurt Russell plays his part perfectly as a completely rough neck truck driver. The characters are fun, well defined, and the movie is definitely humorous.

Tons of witty dialogue with a ridiculous and stereotypical Chinese mythical feel... and as a bonus it even has the really hot girl from Mannequin! Wow

If you haven't seen this movie you haven't lived life!
One of my favorite movies of all time. - Review written on July 16, 2007
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5

This is one of the funniest movies I have ever seen. Incredible sense of campiness and cheesiness with a beautiful delivery.

My friends have endless in-jokes from this movie. We say 'indeed' like Lo Pan, and often speculate on what could be better than a six demon bag. This movie is still funny after countless viewings.
Best. Movie. Ever. Period. - Review written on June 11, 2007
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5
1 customer found this review helpful.

Just listen to the old Porkchop Express, alright? When you want to get the buddies together on a dark and stormy night and have a great time, all you need is some brews, some grub, and a copy of Big Trouble in Little China. This has got to be one of the greatest examples of a hilarious, great fun, buddy comedy-action flick ever devised. You will not be able to stop laughing. Your significant other will consider dumping you because you won't stop quoting it. You will never be able to stop doing the kung fu hand sign the good guys flash at each other during the flick. The greatest characters, most absurd dialogue, this one has it all. Go to the store right now and tell 'em old Jack Burton sent you for a copy. 'Nuff said.
Cheesy but entertaining!! - Review written on May 14, 2007
* * * *
Rating: 4 out of 5

Cheesy but very entertaining. Very 80s. Not Curt's best stuff but very worth while viewing. His best work.............Captin Ron!!!
One of the greatest movies ever made! - Review written on April 11, 2007
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5
1 customer found this review helpful.

Funny, action packed, martial arts, magic, monsters, great (but cheesy) dialogue - truly representative of the Golden Age of Movies (aka, the 80's). The first time I saw this flick, I watched it once a day for 30 days. Did I mention that this is one of many of great John Carpenter films?

Get with it, 'cause for this price, you'll be thanking me for your trip through nostalgia!!
Big Trouble in Little China - Review written on March 29, 2007
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5
1 customer found this review helpful.

The name is Burton, Jack Burton. Fun, action, adventure. If you have not seen this movie, I highly recommend it. Jack Burton belongs up there with Jack Sparrow, Indiana Jones, and Han Solo.
When the movie came out, I had hoped for the futher adventures of Jack Burton. Maybe someday someone will write them, for now, all we can do is keep a list of favorite Jack Burtonisms "Its all in the reflexes."
May the wings of Liberty never lose a feather! - Review written on January 25, 2007
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5
1 customer found this review helpful, 1 did not.

As many have said before: You either get this movie or you don't. Predating mixed-genre TV shows like 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' by a decade, BTILC was an odd duck in 1986. Comedy, buddy action flick, thriller, drama, kung fu fest, fantasy, parody - it's all over the map and all of it is fun.

Just let it do its thing, sit back, and enjoy. The check is in the mail!
A Very Stylish Adventure - Review written on January 19, 2007
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5
1 customer found this review not to be helpful.
This movie is very stylish. It was an exciting adventure. Jack Burton (Kurt Russell) was the main character, but it also focussed some on his buddies, especially toward the end. I would highly recommend this picture.
Who doesn't love Jack Burton - Review written on January 16, 2007
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5
2 customers found this review helpful, 1 did not.

Probably one of the funniest, dumbest movies but it's entertaining as hell.
Movie - Review written on January 10, 2007
* * * *
Rating: 4 out of 5
1 customer found this review helpful, 1 did not.

I enjoyed Big Trouble In Little China. It had mystery, action, and some romace. All things I like in a movie
Yes!!! I want it!!! - Review written on January 09, 2007
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5
1 customer found this review helpful.

I love this movie. Love it! And the commentary is great listening to John Carpenter and Kurt Russell talk about making it is funny and interesting.
Campy Horror - Review written on January 04, 2007
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5

This movie has all the humor and camp, while trying to be a horror movie, that anyone could hope for!! The special effects are great and the story line is definitely one you'll remember. The situations that come up are NOT any that you would find in real life, so it is escapism at it's finest. If you want to laugh, buy this movie!!!
6 Stars :) - Review written on January 02, 2007
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5

I LOVE this movie ... and if you enjoy light hearted action adventure movies with a great sense of humor and a crazy mix of action, magic, romance and effects, this movie may just be for you. This flick follows the adventures of one Jack Burton ... a "man among men", truck driving, gambling, fear no evil lover (if not officianado) of China Town and it's off beat culture. The craziness begins when Jack agrees to help one of his gambling buddies rescue his kidnapped girlfriend and accidentally runs over the reigning (and very ancient) spectral "wizard" of one of China towns most powerful gangs. Sound strange? It is ... in a truly wonderful way. And with lines like "Here's to the Army and Navy, and the battles they have won. Here's to America's colors, the colors that never run. May the wings of Liberty never lose a feather." ... you know it's gonna be fun.

So grab your six-deamon bag, climb aboard the Pork Chop Express and hold on tight for a fun, crazy ride to the "hell of upside down sinners" and back.
Pure fun - Review written on November 27, 2006
* * * *
Rating: 4 out of 5

Watching this film is pure fun. John Carpenter managed to combine some movie genres successfully into a non-stop action movie. Kurt Russell stars as truck driver Jack Burton who finds out that the trail of his stolen truck leads to Chinatown. As soon as he and his Chinese buddy Wong Chi arrive there, the movie simply does not let go of you anymore. Big Trouble in little China is an unique movie which any true film fan should have at home.(SARR)
this is one of the greatest movies ever - Review written on November 04, 2006
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5
1 customer found this review helpful.

this movie has it all--action, magic, humor, monsters, and crazy chinese people just to name a few (don't worry, i'm chinese). it is definately one of my top 5 favorite movies of all time. buy it now!
No trouble in this action-packed fantasy - Review written on October 31, 2006
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5

Big Trouble in Little China can easily be categorized as a John Carpenter Classic with its fantastic story, perfect star power, and fun-filled action. This Little China tale is non-stop from the first ten seconds of the film. You'll laugh, jump, yell, and maybe even cover your eyes from time to time (but don't worry, no horrific scares to be found!). In addition, seeing a younger Kurt Russell, Kim Cattrall, and Victor Wong is a blast in itself! I highly recommend this for some weekend fun with family and friends. Don't forget the popcorn!
Yes, the ultimate Mortal Kombat movie !!! - Review written on October 20, 2006
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5
1 customer found this review helpful.

I think this is a thousand times better than Mortal Kombat the movie, because the 3 asian martial arts guys that came from the sky are way better actors than those on MK.
Anyway, this is something so amazing and has a superb soundtrack aswell (similar sounding theme song to Nightmare On Elm Street 1, maybe same guy composed the songs, gotta check it out), but anyway, this movie absolutely rocks in every aspect. The actors all did an amazing job, the story is original and outstanding, the direction is pure and dark with nice touches of colour, and the soundtrack is superb. Need I say anymore? No, I don't need to say any more, just get this as it is a classic and will remain a classic.
Am I the only one who thought this sucked. - Review written on July 12, 2006
*
Rating: 1 out of 5
26 customers found this review not to be helpful.
I loved "Buckaroo B and I loved "The Thing" and still love Mr. Russell -- thus I thought the talent combo would produce a classic. It took nearly 20 years to finally getting around to seeing it. Sorry, guys, I don't get it. I didn't enjoy it. Didn't have fun. It just plain stunk. The Goonies were better and that's saying something.
(:D) - Review written on May 27, 2006
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5
3 customers found this review helpful.

This is a movie for any true 80's movie fan. The characters are great(especially the evil chinese dude)and it's combo of action and humor is perfect.
It's All In The Reflexes. - Review written on May 17, 2006
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5
2 customers found this review helpful.

Big Trouble in Little China is a great action/tounge in cheek comedy by John Carpenter.The movie is centered around Jack Burton,a trucker who just wants his truck back,the Pork Express.If your a fan of Action,Tounge in Cheek Humor,love Kurt Russel or John Carpenter movies see Big Trouble in Little China.The DVD is full of great features and is just plain cool.Remeber,It's all in the Reflexes.
unclassifiable--except to say its GREAT!!!!! - Review written on April 09, 2006
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5
3 customers found this review helpful, 1 did not.

This movie never fails to make me laugh; everybody steps up to the plate and delivers; the entire cast is pitch perfect.

A Wonderful hybrid action/comedy. This is one of those films that people either love or hate. i definitely love it.
Loads of Fun - Review written on March 17, 2006
* * * *
Rating: 4 out of 5
4 customers found this review helpful.

This may not be an Oscar calibar movie but it is great fun. Kurt Russel is so funny, and the story is so outlandish that you can just forget your problems and enjoy the ride. We have been to San Francisco Chinatown and enjoyed seeing places we had been, we also enjoyed the way this movie seemed to capture the exotic flavor of the place and fed into our hopes that there were secret things going on. This movie in DVD will blow you away with its clarity and colors.
Good moive - Review written on March 16, 2006
* * * * *
Rating: 5 out of 5
2 customers found this review helpful, 1 did not.

Who ever does not like this movie needs to get a funny bone.
other ppl have given better reviews then i can.