Release Date: March 14
Kung Fu Rookie (or Super Courier) embraces the old school Jackie Chan style of storytelling. When the protagonist is from humble roots, he’ll have to become a zero to hero somehow. This film, set in the present, depicts Timuchin’s (Timur Baktybayev, the director) rapid transformation from country bumpkin to city slicker. And in this tale, this character is even being compared to this famous martial artist actor. That’s because he has some impressive acrobatic skills!
And while these action sequences don’t quite match the intensity, I am thrilled to learn this movie is finally coming to streaming services. I’m enjoying this film because this Kazakhstan production gives curiosity seekers a look at this world. It’s no different from any other big city; gangs rule part of it. Timu wastes no time showing he’s ready to fight when thugs constantly bother him and his uncle! Instead of being a vigilante, he wants to become a law enforcement officer!
And rather than focusing on his training, much of the story takes place outside of boot camp. When that includes a romance with the chief’s daughter, the predictability is fairly standard. Ultimately, this film is more about testing whether Baktybayev has the chops to be leading man material. Although he’s well known in his home country, to get the attention of the world means he better have a strong public relations firm working for him.
I am interested in checking out his back catalogue of Kazakh works. As for how I can access them, it will be tough to find. One debut film is not enough to provide a fair assessment of his star power and fighting prowess. This film is entertaining and I hope to see more from this country which goes beyond trying to be like some Hong Kong epics.
Kung Fu Rookie Trailer
