Lights dimmed and excitement crackled through the packed hall at this year's Shanghai International Film Festival, as Jackie Chan's 'Police Story' trilogy burst onto the big screen in dazzling 4K. Forty years after the original Police Story (1985) captivated audiences with its blend of audacious stunts, sharp humor and Chan's fearless physicality, the entire trilogy – including Police Story 2 (1988) and Police Story 3: Super Cop (1992) – has been lovingly restored.
Italy's renowned L'Immagine Ritrovata restoration lab led the painstaking digital overhaul. Every frame was scanned, cleaned and enhanced to deliver crystal-clear resolution, breathing new life into Chan's inventive set pieces – from the record-breaking mall corridor fight to the adrenaline-charged bus-off-cliff sequence.
The festival's tribute to the 120th anniversary of Chinese cinema provided the perfect backdrop for these rejuvenated classics. Screenings sold out fast, drawing game-day energy from die-hard fans and curious newcomers alike. As laughter and applause echoed through the auditorium, it was clear: great action never fades.
For young global citizens, tech-savvy cinephiles and digital nomads hungry for cultural gems, the Police Story restoration offers a passport to the golden era of Hong Kong cinema – one that continues to inspire filmmakers and thrill seekers around the world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
