Watch Sgt. Kabukiman N.Y.P.D.

Sgt. Kabukiman N.Y.P.D. is a 1990 action-comedy film that centers around the character Harry Griswold (Rick Gianasi), an unassuming police officer who finds himself transformed into the heroic and flamboyant Sgt. Kabukiman after he inherits the powers of an ancient Japanese Kabuki performer. Alongside his new partner, a feisty Korean-American detective named Lotus (Susan Byun), Kabukiman sets out to stop an evil cult led by the diabolical villain, The Cheese (Bill Weeden), from using a mystical artifact to take over the world.

The film takes place in the bustling city of New York, and for the most part, it plays out like a typical cop movie - complete with high-speed car chases, shootouts, and gritty crime scenes. However, what sets Kabukiman apart is its quirky sense of humor and over-the-top martial arts scenes. The film is a self-aware parody of the action genre, with tongue firmly planted in cheek.

Gianasi portrays Harry Griswold, a clumsy and accident-prone police officer who spends most of his days getting yelled at by his boss and ridiculed by his colleagues. Things take a turn when, through a series of bizarre events, Harry inherits the powers of a Kabuki performer, including the ability to shoot lasers from his fingertips, levitate, and transform into the titular hero. Despite initially being bewildered by his new found abilities, Harry soon embraces his new identity as Sgt. Kabukiman, donning an outlandish costume that includes a Kabuki mask, bright red cloak, and samurai sword.

As Lotus, Susan Byun brings a feisty energy to the film. She's a tough-as-nails detective who initially views Harry as nothing more than a bumbling fool. However, as they work together to take down the Cheese and his cult, Lotus begins to see Kabukiman as the hero he truly is. Byun is a standout in the film, delivering memorable lines and fight scenes with ease.

The Cheese, played by Bill Weeden, is the film's primary antagonist. He's a nefarious cult leader who seeks to use the mystical artifact known as the "Devil's Disk" to take over the world. Weeden plays the character with a gleeful malice, relishing in every sinister line and dastardly deed.

The film's action scenes are a highlight, with Kabukiman using his newfound powers to take down an array of villains. From epic battles atop moving trucks to hyperkinetic martial arts battles in a Chinese restaurant, the film's action never takes itself too seriously. Even the climactic scene - in which Kabukiman must battle The Cheese atop the Statue of Liberty - plays out with a comedic edge.

What sets Sgt. Kabukiman N.Y.P.D. apart from other action-comedies of its time is its embrace of Japanese culture. The film features an array of Kabuki-inspired set pieces and costumes, and even includes a brief history lesson about the artform. However, the film doesn't stop there - it also weaves in elements of Korean and Chinese culture, creating a sense of cultural mishmash that feels uniquely New York.

Overall, Sgt. Kabukiman N.Y.P.D. is a charming and zany film that will appeal to fans of both action and comedy. It's a cult classic that has aged surprisingly well, and stands as a reminder of the wild and wacky cinema of the 90s.

Sgt. Kabukiman N.Y.P.D. is a 1991 action movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 45 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7.