Pedicab Driver (1989) - Sammo Hung

Perhaps Hung's greatest achievement in the way it balances tone, oscillating between drama, tragedy, action, and comedy in such a seamless manner one is kinda left in awe that the film resoundingly works on every level. The bruises which manifest all over Hung's body are almost a symbolic device - the improvised communities which are born out of the economic conditions imposed on the social fabric via diaspora are where toxic ideologies can manifest but through class unity community rebirth is possible despite the pain and damage inflicted, with those who subjugate the weak being held accountable through community action.  The text itself of Pedicab Driver moves with breakneck speed, from one engaging set-piece to another, displaying somewhat implicitly how these well-intentioned working-class individuals struggle, often thrown into conflict with one and other in one way or another, as they attempt to make a life for themselves.  Many of the main characters of this film are males who display their misogyny explicitly, yet through the narrative arch, the film's subtext elucidates how the commodification of the body itself can be eventually obfuscated through mutual collective action, unbridled empathy, and compassion for others who themselves are just trying to make it in this cold, hard world which rewards those aggressive enough to take what they want despite the subjugation of others it entails - perhaps there is an allegory here related to female liberation.  Incisive socio-political commentary rests beneath the surface of Hung's dynamic and vibrant action comedy, with the film being a highly entertaining and subtextual pointed about life for the working class which is endearing but doesn't lack the necessary punch when needed. ​