Big Trouble in Little China Review - Off The Shelf Reviews

This week Gary and Iain review and discuss, Big Trouble in Little China (1986) by Director, John Carpenter. Starring, Kurt Russell, Kim Cattrall and Dennis Dun.
For more Off The Shelf Reviews:
/ @offtheshelfreviews
Podcasts: offtheshelfreviews.podbean.com/
Follow us on Twitter: / @otsreviews
KZbin: / offtheshelfreviews
Facebook: / offtheshelfreviews
Support us: / offtheshelfreviews
Twitch: / offtheshelfreviews
Discord: / discord

[@doublep1980]

What makes this movie so special,is that it's so subversive. You see Kurt Russell on the cover and the posters,in all his 80's macho-action hero glory and think:''Yeah,he's gonna kick ass,like in The Thing or as Snake Plissken .'' And then you watch the movie and Jack Burton is actually the comic relief sidekick,while his chinese buddy Wang is the actual hero of the movie and does all the asskicking. In fact,Jack Burton has no fucking clue,what is going on,half of the time and is stumbling from one situation to another,talks smack & gets his ass kicked. Kurt Russell has so much comedic talent,that he totally sells it,he's more funny in this movie and 99% of today's so called comedians. Do you see Rian Johnson, *this* is how you subvert expectations the *right way* ,John Carpenter rules.

[@dianes.3718]

This is one of the most underrated films ever, it needs to play in theaters again, ALL of John Carpenter's films need to get a re-release in theaters. Absolutely love this movie. One of my favorite Off the Shelf reviews!!!

[@GamerGuysReviews]

They played it at my theater last year. Worth it!

[@Monkismo]

This is a great double feature with Kung Fu Hustle!

[@jamescrawley7993]

Top favorite movie, this one and the original “Predator!” Good stuff!!

[@shallendor]

Jack Burton is the comedy relief sidekick.

[@TheSlammurai]

Not everyday the protagonist ends up being the sidekick.

[@JamesGormleyMusic]

It’s all in the reflexes

[@ronfroehlich4697]

I saw this in 1987 and it blew my eight year old mind. I actually love this movie even more as an adult and refer to my landscaping truck as the Porkchop Express. I plan on showing this movies to my nephews sometime this summer.

[@monstersbox]

One of my favorite movies of all time. Thank you!

[@metalmadsen]

Chaz Bihun mine too 😄

[@mehvil5620]

One of my favs too

[@nodinitiative]

As a 1990s kid, this movie scared the shit out of me. I watched this movie alone and at night and when the villain fought with their lightning powers, there was also a powerful thunderstorm outside my house and caused a power outage. I instantly hid under my sheets. Scary childhood memory.

[@Kaiyanwang82]

You were basically in a next-gen theatre with ambient effects!

[@AubreyTheKing]

It's hard to believe movies like Big Trouble in Little China & John Carpenter's The Thing was poorly received by people back then! THESE MOVIES ARE GREAT! I'm glad people now a days are seeing how awesome they are today! Thanks for the review on Big Trouble in Little China, you guys! Keep it up! :)

[@KiddCrowley]

Thanks for covering this guys. This is my favourite film of all time

[@KiddCrowley]

@Chris McRoy yep really

[@nikolaiquack8548]

I highly respect your choice, good sir.

[@TheSlammurai]

In my opinion one of the greatest comedies ever made. I could never watch Big Trouble enough times to get tired of it.

[@WoodBlock707]

I’ve been waiting sooooo long for you guys to review big trouble in little China.

[@JD.78]

Awesome!! In the GTA games (all of them) i"d steal a Truck, drive to China Town, jump out and start a riot, then sit back blissfully imagining i was re-enacting Big Trouble In Little China. Good times.

[@rosemaryfarell5264]

The Escape films Kurt did his Eastwood in this he goes full on John Wayne. BRILLIANT

[@deborahlepage1789]

I've always loved this movie. Rented it from Blockbuster and I loved the whole thing and wondered why it was not at theaters. Because they never advertised it. I love that Wang was kicking ass all around Jack , fighting mystical and magical beings, and his friend, hi s unintentional sidekick is following along. Jack seemed to be Wang's lucky piece. Yeah, Jack doesn't actually fight in any of the grand fights, but he is the strange piece of magical LUCK, LUCK that if it hadn't gone along with Wang to the battles, Wang would not have escaped certain death to battle mystical forces and WON! - to rescue - and I've not read enough Eastern, of Chinese films except to Westernize Meow Yin Yes, Wang fought and won the battles, and Eh (gh?) Chihnn made the magic in the mystical battles possible for people who were fighting fricking magical battles late after their nine-to-fives of moving and unpacking shipping containers of refrigerated vegetables, various meat and fish. After those tiring days, they went to fight a war, unseen by the blind Westerners all around them and they WON, not solely because of their bravery and skills, but because they had their magical bit of Blind Stupid LUCK with them, and if that LUCK hadn't travelled with them, they wouldn't have WON their magical battles but lost. But, stupid LUCK did travel with them and they WON, against magical forces, that had reigned untouched for two thousand years. In what other way could LUCK have been anthropomorphized except as Jack Burton. And yes, more than thirty years on, my husband and I still quote Jack, of Wang, Lo Pahn, or Ehk (Egg?)Chinn and laugh and smile at a movie where Americans were not the heroes riding in to save the day, but just the stupid crazy bit of LUCK that made victory possible. Cult Classic? I love this film and will watch it where ever i find it, streaming, Cable orTV networks where i have to endure crap commercials, but call it well worth it for the fun that is Big Trouble in Little China. :-)

[@AarenJable]

This is one of my favourite films of all time! Thanks for reviewing it guys, this is gonna be a good one.

[@ozymandias192]

This was honestly my first John Carpenter movie when I was a lot younger and my dad showed it to my brother and I for the first time. But now, at 23 years old this is still one of my favorite movies of all time, I also have that poster you were talking about hanging on my wall!

[@Luvie1980]

I hate the fact that they're remaking this awesome iconic 80s movie.

[@Champion2D]

It's a sequel.

[@MrLorenzovanmatterho]

Better a sequel than a remake. @@Champion2D

[@sternobum9149]

They are!?

[@Champion2D]

@Shawn Burke collider.com/dwayne-johnson-big-trouble-in-little-china-sequel/

[@geefreck]

Everything I read says it's a continuation, not a remake Thank goodness

[@fawkkyutuu8851]

One of THE top 10 best 80's movies ever made and one of my favorite movies ever made period. Masterpiece from Intro to end credits with a legendary soundtrack. Endlessly rewatchable.

[@navieon209]

This is my favorite John Carpenter film, absolutely love this film. My only issue with this review... it was to short.

[@MrECHOfox]

You guys have to review 'Tango & Cash' at some point.

[@Asian_Movie_Enthusiast]

I've seen this movie more times than any other movie.

[@Cwibacca]

Love this film. It's a classic, I remember renting the VHS when I was a kid and just being mesmerized, and then laughing insanely when Thunder gets so angry and blows himself up. Forward to today, I PVR'D the movie two weeks ago and watched it four times last weekend alone. I then went out and bought it on Bluray.

[@TheMsLourdes]

I always thought that once Lopan was 'dead' the three storms started to soak in the extra magical energy available and overloaded.. Lightning wasn't trying to make a big show at the end, he was losing control of his powers, and was trying to get rid of the excess energy as fast as he could and it wasn't working..

[@zanemagers7465]

Childhood favorite 👍 Thanks guys 😊

[@brianoneil9662]

The fact that you can't remember Eddie Wong, the maitre'd and a whole.lot more? For shame! I saw this in the theater. A mostly empty theater, which made me mad, but it was a Carpenter film. Also, I'm a long haul truck driver in the U.S. I find "my people" by saying "I never drive faster than I can see." and if someone says "It's all in the reflexes." then we compare R.J. MacReady tattoos and talk about where to find the best knee high lace-up leather moccasins.

[@sonnysolstice5139]

Glad you guys Reviewed this extremely enjoyable Film !! " IT'S ALL IN THE REFLEXES.."

[@kialoves2543]

Another one of my favorite movies. Even when I was little I KNEW Wang was the hero. I love Kurt Russell and the role he plays in this movie. Always a classic to me.

[@miikasuominen3845]

40 seconds and already I've seen one of the best dance and song scenes EVER laid to "film"! This morning coffee is going to be extremely enjoyable! ;)

[@iammwh936]

"Have you paid your dues, Jack? Yes Sir, the check is in the mail!" I love this film, so do my kids. Thanks for the video guys!

[@zetetick395]

Also BTiLC has one of the best commentary tracks too, it's just John Carpenter and Kurt Russel sat in Kurts livingroom, smoking, goofing off and telling backstage stories. 👍

[@04mami]

Ed Boon and John Tobias never credited this movie for the idea of Raiden, but we all know it was... Hell even Lopan could arguably be the basis for Shang Tsung!

[@gran-roan]

Lo Pan absolutely was the main influence. Really, a lot of the elements of the movie are quite memorable, and keep having an impact on series and movies, even if at small things.

[@theresidentteacher2438]

I watched this RELIGIOUSLY as a kids. Today I own the blu-ray and the dvd. A defining movie of the 80s.

[@christallh24]

Great review, guys! I tend to watch only your horror reviews, but this being a *bonafide* cult classic, I had to watch! A fun watch, as well, as you both had huge grins on your faces throughout the video, lol. Big Trouble has found it's way to even new generations. I watched it with my, 16 at the time, deaf cousin. And what surprised me is he knew all, and I mean *all* of Jack's dialogue. He did all of it in (American) sign language. So, thanks guys! This movie has a special place in my heart.

[@kylecurry577]

Great & fun cult classic.... the John Carpenter/ Kurt Russell duo is magic!

[@gran-roan]

Only watched few movies in the cinema as a child, but almost all of them turned out to be cult classics. I remember this function being packed (on Mexico), so kind of surprised that it was a flop. Got scared at several scenes, specially with the monsters (eye of beholder, the storms, Lo Pan shiny eyes), but there is something about the design and ambience, that stop you to take your eyes away. A shame that young audiences can't take it too seriously, but it really was a great mystic adventure film, which are no longer common nowadays. Also, the Chinese lore plays well with the Gremlin's.

[@The_JohnnieWalker]

It's not meant to be taken seriously

[@jasondouglas152]

I always thought this movie was the real inspiration for Mortal Kombat . Kurt Russell = Johnny Cage Kim Catrell = Sonya Wang = Liu Kang Lighting guy = Raiden The villain = Shang Sung ... Then they threw in the ninjas ( scorpion / sub zero) and a terminator ( kano)

[@funnymgtow1893]

I first saw this film at home and it was on Betamax.

[@ShaoShimigami]

I love this film. I’m glad you reviewed this.

[@Psychlist1972]

As a funny martial arts movie (well, sort of), this wasn't topped until Kung Fu Hustle, IMO. Still one of my favorite movies. This reminds me, I need to show my kids.

[@fuzzydunlop1753]

"if we're not back by dawn, call the president" lmao, god I fucking love this movie, but then again the carpenter/russell combination is always a guarantee for a good time.

[@jonnyross6796]

I can quote entire movie. Best dialogue ever.

[@RetroRanter]

Every time I think it's time to sleep you guys upload nice and early. 😂 Gotta watch this though, One of my all time favourite movies hands down. Carpenter and Russell = Gold..people just didn't realise it at the time. 😂

[@stefansodbinow6300]

Such a great review. Breakdowns were perfect. Thank you!

[@IainHamilton]

Classic line - "Hollow? "Hollow" F*** It!". Loved this review guys and hint for the next one "Excalibur 1981" - just an idea.

[@NucleaRaptor]

You really shook the pillars of heaven with this one, lads.

[@rashodivey9071]

Excellent review guys! This is one of my favorite movies. Ya gotta love ol Jack Burton. Oh and Wang's friend that hooked up with Margo is named Eddie.

[@NickElliott-xn4bg]

This moving is absolutely legendary I was lucky enough to be shown it by mum when I was about 4 years old it is a film that got my love right from the get go! Just like Iain said what can I say about this tremendous film its just simply epic on so many scales and watching your love for carpenter and this film is always a joy to watch thankyou bros 👊

[@waynemorris6907]

My wife watched this with me the other day. She wasn't very impressed! I spent the whole time laughing.

[@jwnj9716]

So many great quotes.

[@jamesbrooking1287]

that multi-eyed creature in big trouble looks a lot like the beholder from D&D and that's been referenced in games

[@mattmidgley4275]

Only re-watched this the other day with my 87 year old grandmother! Looking forward to this guys OTSR 👊👊

[@jackcraven2266]

Like you said, while not successful on its initial release like some other John Carpenter films, this is still a cult classic and with damn good reason! Great review!

[@GamerGuysReviews]

The greatest movie of all time with the greatest actor of all time: Kurt Motherf*cking Russell!!

[@rosemaryfarell5264]

Absolute Classic. John Carpenter is my favourite Director ever and love seeing u review the great mans films. Check the music video to the title song too its HILARIOUS. JC,Tommy lee wallace and Nick Castle off their nuts on Colombia's finest.

[@davydredd9162]

After the credits roll, 'Egg Shen' travels to Tibet.. (The Golden Child)

[@leannkennett905]

Honestly I think that John Carpenter was going for a green hornet/ Kato thing where the white guy thinks he’s the main hero but he’s a bumbling idiot who just keeps getting saved by the actual hero who he sees as his sidekick.

[@thechosenones4375]

Rain was always my favorite. He had such personality in his facial expressions

[@yarsivad000.5]

Kurt Russel was doing John Wayne.

[@jorel4477]

Great movie guys, can’t wait to watch this after work!

[@damionnefelsch6546]

Jack Burton. Who? A role which cemented Kurt's ability to diversify his roles. Bulletproof was one of his greatest roles. He even played god with a little g. This movie(btilc) one is one of my top 10

[@wreccen]

Yes sir, the check is in the mail

[@cwhit2575]

Creepshow 1 and 2 plzzzzz

[@Alpha-T800]

Thank you so much! You Guys are Awesome!!

[@davydevilution3483]

Whatta Fantastically Entertaining Action/Comedy Film !!!! Excellent Review, guys !!

[@krissymarklewis1793]

Great movie...also the Golden Child with a similar plot was heavily advertised at the time, I don't remember any cinemas by me showing Aliens. I love the way Wang and Egg Shen are true heroes and Jack Burton apart from swiftly dispatching Lo Pan fails at everything and even misses the final fight!

[@hypnocilicdreams]

I've been on a major John Carpenter flex lately, so I'll watch this video right after the movie!

[@edwardbevington9351]

Prince of darkness... Watch that if you haven't.

[@hypnocilicdreams]

@@edwardbevington9351 Excellent movie! Very underrated. I have seen it, but am due a rewatch! Thanks for the suggestion

[@hypnocilicdreams]

Worth revisiting also is Off The Shelf top 5 John Carpenter movies kzbin.info/www/bejne/kJTKeKl-gL9kabs

[@Simppu1410]

Oh man. It's been YEARS, maybe a decade, since last time I saw the film. I should watch it again!

[@KraigFang]

This was one of my favorite movies growing up!

[@vanssan1414]

brilliant review as always thankyou guys x

[@Johnny1864]

I only watched this once as a kid (only remember the floating eyeball). I think I'm going to have to revisit it

[@MrLorenzovanmatterho]

Very little to add as you've pretty much said it all. Wonder if Joss Whedon is a fan as there are a couple of scenes in Buffy which are very reminiscent of it? Alas John Carpenter, knocking it past the boundary in the 70/80s, can't get arrested now. Let's just hope James Cameron isn't going the same way? One thing, the lawyer at the beginning is Jerry Harlin, aka, Deep Throat from the X-files.

[@songsforvampires]

The goat butts against the hedge and his horns become entangled - Egg Shen San Francisco China Town

[@theartofwarshow2040]

You helped me enjoy something I already love even more. Thanks!

[@DrRockso79]

tfw you've watched so many bad movies you immediately recognize Gerald Okamura at the funeral.

[@theitfactorjameswheezer2852]

John Smith your acting as if this is a bad movie lol

[@edmonlessley4932]

One of my all time favorites too. 😎

[@caseysand8227]

You know what Jack Burton says at a time like this... Oh and those shirts(again) are awesome

[@TheBongking77]

Love the random Python song!

[@Naldo2001]

you guys have to do a review on Golden Child, its another one of my favorites.

[@edwardbevington9351]

Here's one for the porkchop 💪 Fyi... Walt disneys last words were Kurt Russell...

[@jdgreen214]

I was 7 years old when this released and I watched it every time it came on. This and Indiana Jones and the temple of doom.

[@thatguybehindtheglass]

Still haven't got that "The Golden Child" review, guys...

[@shawn6669]

Read the childrens story "The 5 chinese brothers".

[@bwillythekid8249]

There's a Jack Burton and Snake Plisken crossover comic. I haven't acquired it yet. But I already know that I will like it.

[@ChicaLocaGB]

Fantastic review, thoroughly enjoyed it, great job

[@craigrivers82]

That wasn't a chicken.... it was a dog

[@Psychlist1972]

The Golden Child has some amusing moments, but only because of Eddie Murphy. "Give me the kniiiiife" :)

[@brenair4480]

Greatest movie ever made. Love this to death.

[@coalhalo]

The classic final of the trilogy. I have always loved this movie ever since it came out and like the other two of the trilogy it continues to age well. I’ve been waiting for you guys to review this film for quite awhile now and I’m really glad you finally did, thanks.

[@Grandmastergav86]

Shout out to Carter Wong- a bona fide Kung Fu movie star as Thunder. James Hong is a wonderful actor, the true star of this film and actually voiced "Billy Lo" in Game Of Death.

[@skaro85]

Cheers guys! Remember my brother introducing me to this film! Love it! 😁 👊

[@barricade1391]

About time you reviewed this. Awesome 🙌🏼

[@Jay-mu4xl]

Oh yes! I'm gonna enjoy this tonight, big cuppa tea and otsr! Thanks guys

[@lastcall3544]

Next time you mention the scene where Kurt Russell reacts to the knife at the airport, you show the damn clip!! Another good review dudes, I love this movie. Watched it again a couple weeks ago!

[@c.o.n.collectingofnostalgi889]

Jack Burton That's Who!!

[@starflakmyriad5394]

Eddie... his name is Eddie... the maître d' (and so much more!)

[@connormckinney2070]

Awesome review fellas!!! Since the reviews for the Andrei Tarkovsky's films are still on hold, could y'all maybe consider reviewing Irvin Kershner's 1990 film Robocop 2?

[@daleanderson1727]

Good stuff, a movie I have loved for years.Are you guys on the dysee platform yet?

[@BDSER11]

This movie has probably the best rotoscoped lightening effects ever in a movie.

[@ninjamaster3453]

Big trouble, Prince of darkness and They live are like a trilogy.

[@brenair4480]

The Thing/Prince of Darkness/In the Mouth of Madness is a trilogy. :-)

[@doctorpicardnononono7469]

13:49 duck!

[@danielcrick8871]

Another awesome review guys! Thank you love this movie, well done once again!