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| Cast: Stephen Chow, Xu Jiao, Kitty Zhang Yugi |
The Plot:
Due to his financial status, Ti is forced to work long hours, and is therefore unable to spend a lot of time with his son. However, Ti often goes out of his way to make sure that his son has 'new' things on a regular basis. The catch, he often obtains these things amongst the trash at the local junkyard. One day, when he discovers that he can't afford the latest toy that his son so desperately wants, Ti heads out to the junkyard and brings back a green ball. Unknown to Ti, this green ball is a little different from his usual junkyard findings. Possessing special powers, it can transform into an extraterrestrial 'pet,' one that will open the eyes of Ti and his son, changing the way they each see the people and world around them. |
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The Movie:
While the film carries a pleasant story of discovery and acceptance, it is handicapped by both subtitles and mature dialogue, prompting me to believe that this film was shot for children way but will appeal to an older, more mature audience.
But regardless, I personally felt that the film was fun, exciting and a joy to watch – even if it was meant for those under the age of eight. Capped by a stellar serious performance by usual funnyman Stephen Chow, CJ7 contains enough heartwarming moments between a father and son, that it will easily melt your heart and have you eating out of its hands by the twenty minute mark.
However, the film isn't all great.
For starters, CJ7 is a Mandarin film with English subtitles running at the bottom. Now, I realize that this is the only solution to the language barrier; however, when targeting children who can barely, if at all read, there is a problem. Not to mention that the film relies heavily on the imagination, using a story line that will not be easily interpreted by the younger audience.
Luckily, the Blu-Ray disc contains an English version of the film, allowing at least one of my complaints from my original viewing on the big screen to be corrected.
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The Extras:
CJ7: Mission Control: This feature is actually a game in which you must work to get the tiny creature back into space so that he can go home. Though somewhat innovative, the game is a little lame and therefore can be skipped with absolutely no regret.
The Story of CJ7 (13:41): This segment talks with members of the cast and crew about why Stephen Chow decided to do a children's movie and how a female was able to land the role of Ti's son. Interesting from beginning to end.
How to Bully a Bully (4:11): With much of the film being based on a bully situation, this feature teaches young kids how to handle their own bully. Silly from the start, 'How to Bully a Bully' is pointless and meant for the younger crowd.
How to Make a Lollipop (1:29): Though you can always buy a tasty lollipop, 'How to Make a Lollipop' teaches you how to put together a piece of the popular candy to be used in a film. While somewhat interesting, neither kid nor adult will ever be able to follow the quick instructions, making this feature as unneeded as the one concerning bullies.
English Version of CJ7: Due to the fact that many kids cannot read fast enough to keep up with the quick subtitles that are used throughout the entire film, an English version of the movie has been added for the viewer's convenience. |
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The Verdict:
Though Stephen Chow is known for his comedies, I can honestly say that he has created a solid and fun film out of CJ7. Featuring a batch of newcomers, a creative premise and an English version of the film, the movie that I felt alienated its target audience in theaters has found its success in home video. Together, the film and the bonus features create a package that is sure to entertain everyone, regardless of their age. |
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