John Carpenter, on the set of BIG TROUBLE IN LITTLE CHINA, 1986. TM and Copyright © 20th Century Fox Film Corp. All rights reserved. Courtesy: Everett Collection.
John Carpenter has a taste for classic films from the black-and-white era. The vast majority of his favorite features are shadowy noir efforts released before color cinema was the universal standard. He’s often professed his undying appreciation for titles like Only Angels Have Wings, Double Indemnity, and The Third Man. Yet, his tastes aren’t exclusive to that time period. In fact, in a video for the Criterion Channel, Carpenter recently spoke to his appreciation for the contemporary action film, Hard Boiled.
After Carpenter introduces himself and plugs the Criterion Channel, he gets down to business recommending Hard Boiled. “Here is one of my favorites,” the celebrated director begins. “It’s called Hard Boiled. It’s John Woo directed. Chow Yun-fat is the star. And it redefined action moves. There’s a gunfight. The leads get into an elevator, go up, and continue the gunfight on another floor. It’s an incredible film. I recommend it highly.”
With such an enthusiastic endorsement from such a respected name, you’re probably wondering what Hard Boiled is all about. Well, wonder no more, dear reader. I’ll tell you. The film follows a police officer (Chow Yun-fat) reeling from the tragic loss of his parter (Bowie Lam). The bereft lawman subsequently embarks on a revenge spree to hold those responsible for his late partner’s demise accountable … at all costs.
Now that you know what the film is about and that Carpenter is a fan, you’re probably wondering how to watch it. Well, we’ve got you covered. The 1992 actioner is presently free to stream on Tubi! Heck yes.
Released in 1992, Hard Boiled has since become an action staple thanks to its stylized action sequences, epic fight choreography, and dark sense of humor. In the years since the release of Hard Boiled, director Woo has gone on to enjoy great success in the American film market. He’s likely best known to stateside film lovers as the brilliant mind behind the balls-to-the-wall action spectacle Face/Off. The director’s output has been somewhat inconsistent in recent years, but his earlier career efforts are certified dynamite. Believe you me. Speaking of certified, Hard Boiled is certified fresh on Rotten Tomatoes with a stellar approval rating of 95%.
If you love rip-roaring action, do yourself a favor and make a point to check out Hard Boiled on Tubi. After that, make sure to let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
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