She Shoots Straight might not be as landmark as Police Story or Yes, Madam but it is a solid Hong Kong police movie. Hong Kong adds acrobatic jumps and flips to most shootouts making even the average cop movie a thrilling spectacle.
This one is a vehicle for Sammo Hung’s wife, Joyce Godenzi. She is investigating a Vietnamese gang, along with Ling (Carina Lau). Sammo Hung has a non action role as the captain and Tony Ka Fai Leung assists but it is the women’s show.
The basic procedural shootouts are enough, but She Shoots Straight also has a booby trapped enemy compound and a finale on a boat with crowbars, sledge hammer, machetes, chains, an axe, and a wrench. Deaths are handled with real operatic pathos. American cop movies would try to stay stoic.
The Blu-ray transfer shows off Hong Kong right on the cusp of the ‘90s in beautiful clarity. The streets, the clubs and countryside are all shark and bright.
An interview with the writer and Frank Djeng’s commentary provides all the useful context to Hung’s production company and the vehicle for his wife. If nepo babies are a sticking point, Most can’t kick like Joyce Godenzi.