Mãnh Hổ Ngửi Tường Vi Long Phụng Đại Đạo (2017)

A Chinese Odyssey: Part Three (released as Tiger Smells the Rose or Dragon and Phoenix Grand Dao in some regions), directed by veteran filmmaker Jeffrey Lau, is a contentious attempt to revisit and expand upon the beloved A Chinese Odyssey universe. Cinematically, the film’s visual effects (CGI) are often inconsistent and can detract from the fantastical allure essential to its fantasy-comedy genre. Nevertheless, Lau’s signature surreal humor, time-travel paradoxes, and non-linear narrative structure are all present, offering a familiar yet ultimately less profound experience compared to its iconic predecessors. The philosophical depth and unexpected charm that defined the originals are noticeably diluted.

The ensemble cast, including Julian Cheung, Gillian Chung, and Charlene Choi, put forth commendable efforts to embody legendary characters like the Monkey King and Zixia Fairy. However, the immense legacy of the original performances casts a long shadow, making it challenging for their portrayals, despite their fresh interpretations, to evoke the same emotional resonance and inimitable charisma. The film attempts to explore themes of fate, transcendent love, and personal choice, but its execution often feels superficial, easily overshadowed by occasionally forced comedic elements. Consequently, A Chinese Odyssey: Part Three functions more as an intriguing "what if" expansion than a groundbreaking new chapter for Hong Kong cinema, largely confined to nostalgic echoes.