Watch Scared Stiff

Scared Stiff, also known as "Small Cop" or its original title "Ying ging boon sik," is a 1987 Hong Kong action-comedy film that brings together an ensemble cast led by Kiu-Wai Miu, Chow Yun-Fat, and Eric Tsang. Directed by Lau Kar-Wing, who is known for his contribution to the Hong Kong cinema’s action genre, the movie offers a fusion of suspense, humor, and thrilling action sequences, characteristic of the era's style of filmmaking.

The film centers on a somewhat quirky and unconventional protagonist, played by Kiu-Wai Miu. Miu's character is an amiable but somewhat inept police officer whose earnest desire to do well at his job often lands him in a series of comedic mishaps. He represents the underdog whose resilience and determination make him an endearing figure to the audience. His earnestness is offset by a certain naïveté that tends to complicate situations rather than resolve them.

Chow Yun-Fat, who by the time had already started to make a name for himself as one of Hong Kong’s leading actors especially in the genre of action cinema, portrays a character with a much cooler demeanor—an antithesis to Miu’s bumbler. Chow’s role adds an element of smooth-talking charisma to the fabric of the story. His portrayal of a confident and competent figure gives the film a sense of balance and offer viewers a compelling point of contrast. The dynamics between the earnest policeman and the suave role played by Chow Yun-Fat are central to the movie’s comedic and dramatic tensions.

Eric Tsang complements the trio with his unmistakable comedic flair. Known for his ability to personify diverse characters, Tsang delivers a performance that oscillates between funny, touching, and occasionally cunning. His character often acts as a catalyst, driving the story forward through a series of humorous events and misunderstandings that deepen the central conflict and entertain the audience.

The plot of Scared Stiff threads together elements of action, comedy, and a touch of supernatural intrigue. While such a mix is typical for Hong Kong cinema of the period, the film does so in its own unique way. The narrative follows our heroes as they become entangled in an increasingly complex situation involving criminals, supernatural occurrences and personal challenges. As they navigate through a maze of dangers and laugh-inducing scenarios, the protagonists also grapple with their own fears and the expectations placed upon them—personally and professionally.

Throughout the film, viewers are treated to classic Hong Kong-style action choreography—highly stylized and exaggerated—which remains one of the hallmarks of the genre and one of the features that catapulted its leading stars to international acclaim. The tightly edited fight scenes and stunts are intricate and energetically executed, blending with the comedic timing to create a rip-roaring experience.

While the movie is a rollicking adventure packed with moments designed to draw laughter, it doesn’t shy away from weaving in the occasional tender moment or character-building scene. Relationships are tested, loyalties are questioned, and amidst the chaos, our heroes must find the courage and wit to outsmart their adversaries.

Scared Stiff also dabbles in elements of horror, rounding out the '80s trifecta of popular genres—action, comedy, and horror. Supernatural twists serve as a vehicle to put the characters in distressing and hilarious predicaments, and the comedic treatment of potentially frightening scenarios helps maintain a tone that is more entertaining than terrifying.

The film’s setting, with its vivid depiction of 1980s Hong Kong, serves as a backdrop that is vibrant and full of life. Cinematography captures the essence of the bustling city, from the neon-lit nightscapes to the crowded day-to-day hustle, giving international audiences a glimpse into life in Hong Kong during that period.

In summary, Scared Stiff offers a captivating blend of genres that were typical of Hong Kong cinema during the late '80s, anchored by strong performances from some of the territory’s most renowned actors. It delivers a mix of high-octane action, slapstick, and situational comedy, with a sprinkling of horror elements—all wrapped in a fast-paced narrative. For fans of the genre or of the actors themselves, the film remains an entertaining watch that showcases the talent and versatility of its cast as well as the creative spirit that defined the golden era of Hong Kong cinema.