Watch Chicken and Duck Talk

Chicken and Duck Talk is an entertaining and witty Hong Kong comedy film from 1988, directed by Clifton Ko and starring three of the most acclaimed and beloved actors from Hong Kong cinema of the time: Michael Hui, Ricky Hui, and Sylvia Chang. The film tells the story of two guys, Hui (Michael Hui) and Lo (Ricky Hui), who have been friends since they were children and now run rival restaurants in a busy street in Hong Kong. Hui's restaurant specializes in chicken, while Lo's serves duck, and both of them are determined to prove that their dish is the superior one. However, their business rivalry takes a hilarious turn when they are both forced to fight against a common enemy: a fast-food franchise that threatens to put them out of business. To win the battle, they must put their differences aside, team up, and come up with clever ways to outsmart the American competitor.

The film is a satire on the globalization of fast food and the clash between traditional and modern ways of cooking and eating. It also explores themes such as friendship, loyalty, and family ties. Hui and Lo's relationship is a strong example of how childhood friendships can survive through adulthood even when professional competition puts their bonds to the test. They are both stubborn, but they also have a soft spot for each other, and their banter and witty insults are one of the many highlights of the movie.

Another standout performance comes from Sylvia Chang, who plays the role of a food critic and journalist named Ms. Lee. She is a confident and independent woman who is not afraid to speak her mind and criticizes the two main characters' food severely. However, her harsh reviews also have a positive impact on their businesses, as they start taking her critiques seriously and try to improve the quality of their food. Chang's portrayal of Ms. Lee is one of her most memorable roles, showcasing her natural charm and charisma as an actress.

The film also features a colorful cast of supporting characters, including Hui and Lo's families and employees, as well as the American businessman who represents the fast-food franchise. Their interactions add a layer of depth and richness to the story, and provide many comic relief moments that will make the audience laugh out loud. Some of the funniest scenes involve Hui and Lo trying to come up with new chicken and duck recipes to impress Ms. Lee, with hilarious results.

Chicken and Duck Talk benefits from Clifton Ko's direction, which is fast-paced and energetic, making the film fly by at a brisk pace. The cinematography is also impressive, with vibrant and colorful shots of Hong Kong's busy streets and markets.

In conclusion, Chicken and Duck Talk is a delightful and entertaining comedy that stands the test of time. With excellent performances from its three leads, witty humor, and clever social commentary, it is a must-watch for fans of Hong Kong cinema and anyone who loves a good food-themed movie.

Chicken and Duck Talk is a 1989 comedy. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2.