The Inspector Wears Skirts is another lady cop action series from Hong Kong. I never knew how much it had in common with Police Academy. At least the first one is about training the special SKRT squad.
Since the main ensemble is all women, it’s interesting to see them to Hong Kong comedy schtick during training, socializing at a roller rink and dance club, and sneaking out after curfew. They’re like the Lucky Stars in that way but not as sexist.
The training has some wild stunts but when they’re called into action, the film delivers wild fights combined with explosives and bullets. It even concludes with outtakes, the tradition of producer Jackie Chan, whose stunt team also worked on the fights.
Once again, wow to the HD transfer of this. Even though the days of bad VHS dubs are a distant memory, 88 Films really stands out even among modern restorations.
A new interview with the reliable Cynthia Rothrock walks through specific stunts and what they were really like behind the scenes. You can feel her joy still to this day.
Director Wellson Chin covers more of his broader career. They’ve done that for Rothrock too. Check the In the Line of Duty set. Chin does address the Police Academy comparisons too.
Frank Djeng’s commentary also acknowledges Police Academy so I wasn’t off base. As usual, Djeng has everyone’s resume and production information. He alludes to recent Hong Kong politics but keeps it light and encourages everybody to google.
An essay by Paul Bramhall looks at the film’s place in the Hong Kong girls with guns subgenre and highlights each individual performer’s contribution, and future in the business.
The new collage for the cover art emphasizes the action as the stars are in intimidating poses. You do see them running in formation in the lower left, and that’s consistent with original theatrical art. Everyone knew Hong Kong movies incorporated comedy so they didn’t always have to be overt on the poster.