Genre:
Comedy
Director: Jack Neo
Cast: Fann Wong, Gurmit Singh, Lina Ng, Brandon
Wong, Suhaimi Yusof, Samuel Chong
Special Appearances: Henry Thia, Hossan Leong,
Selena Tan, Lim Kay Siu, Neo Swee Lin
RunTime: 1 hr 51 mins
Released By: GV & Innoform Media
Rating: PG
Official Website: http://www.justfollowlaw.com.sg
Opening
Day: 15 Feb 2007
OUR
COVERAGE OF THE "JUST FOLLOW LAW" PRESS CONFERENCE
Synopsis
:
This is a satirical movie that humorously explores
the intricacies of office politics, seen through the eyes
of blue-collar worker Shui and Vice President Tanya who, through
a freak accident, swap souls and bodies. They each experience
life in the shoes of the other and come to a better understanding
of the plights and challenges facing the workforce in Singapore.
Movie Review:
In Jack Neo’s latest escapade, this blockbuster
neither fails nor succeeds, but resembles an effort more worthy
of a Channel 8 tele-movie.
The
whole concept sounded very promising indeed. In his previous
films, the struggles and angst of the common folk are subtly
captured. This proved to be a hit with the masses. Though,
Just Follow Law will undoubtedly gain similar successful box
office takings, it just does not compare with Jack Neo’s
earlier works. The film here glosses over its main points
with little focus, as the writers attempt to squeeze in as
many issues, giving superficial treatment to the satire.
At
many instances, lessons not learnt from his previous films
crop up – like slow moving and superfluous music videos,
which detract from the storyline and were rather annoying.
With
that being said, the film is still generally well made (save
for some really silly and cheap CG effects) and easy and enjoyable
to sit through.
There
is some good acting in this film. Fann Wong, after much criticism
regarding her English, has shown much improvement and show
s herself to be a natural in front of the camera. She blooms
as the vulgar ah beng technician, arguably her best role yet.
Gurmit Singh is his usual comic self, though I found his mannerisms
verging more on the stereotyped ‘effeminate’ gay
male side, rather than a woman trapped in a man’s body.
The
film itself is littered with mostly forgettable supporting
roles, apart from some, which were brilliant and humourous.
These well-written minor roles, supported by wonderful and
down to earth acting, such as the endearing Lao Char Bo (Tanya’s
Mother) and the Indian Security Guard prove that director
Jack Neo still is the master of the characterisation and caricature.
Overall,
a good 'Chinese New Year' piece for the family, but expect
no awards. Jack Neo may be a good social commentator but still
has a long way to go because he can become an accomplished
director.
Movie
Rating:
(Ok
but not great)
Review
by Darren Sim
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