Interview: Michael Hui

Throughout the history of modern Hong Kong cinema there have undoubtedly been many stars. From Kwan Tak Hing to current stars such as Lau Ching Wan and Sammi Cheng, numerous names have contributed to the development and popularity of this unique film industry.

However, few can be attributed with changing the face of Hong Kong cinema, few can earn the overused title of ‘genius’. Without listing the reasons for and against the plethora of stars that may be in contention, I would personally list a mere handful in this category. Michael Hui is one of the film-makers whose contribution certainly ranks him among this class. Before our exclusive interview with Michael, a short foreword is in order just to give a suitable introduction.

Michael Hui’s films, at their best, combined a strong dose of character-driven comedy with a splash of subtle slapstick alongside a unique Cantonese sensibility. What Hui also provided was a definite social backbone behind the humour and the examination of the plight of the working man. His seminal masterpiece ‘The Private Eyes‘ is perhaps the most vivid realisation of this; from the opening Sam Hui-sung theme to the tracking shots of the Hong Kong populous, there is no doubt that this is intended as more than just an exercise in comedy. The pattern continues in the box-office smash ‘Security Unlimited‘ which again brings into the narrative each of the Hui brothers well-rounded character-types. Both films are widely regarded as the best of the Hui brothers’ canon, but I would also recommend the under-rated ‘The Contract‘; although lacking the layered-storyline it is pure fun and contains some classic Michael Hui routines, especially when he presents a crass quiz show.

Throughout his later career, that followed the hugely successful ‘Security Unlimited’, Michael still produced some cinematic gems, even though some of his output wasn’t of his usual standard. Highly recommended viewing of this period includes the wonderful ‘Chocolate Inspector‘ and the well-loved ‘Chicken And Duck Talk‘. Both films are a perfect example of the chemistry between Michael and Ricky Hui – a partnership that has rarely been matched. Michael’s craggy, yet appealing persona makes these two classics required viewing for every Hong Kong film fan. Weaker features such as ‘Teppanyaki‘ and ‘Happy Ding Dong‘ have their moments, but fail to have the spark of genius that Michael’s greatest efforts have.

It’s hard to define what makes Michael Hui such a master of his craft; his supreme timing, ability to produce magic from moments of subtle stillness and the sublime character interaction all play their part. The composition of his talent doesn’t need deep analysis to appreciate though. Just as the works of screen legends the ilk of Chaplin, Tati and the Marx Brothers can be much more than simple comedy, the easiest way to really enjoy Michael Hui is to simply sit back and lose yourself in his unique world. The reward is priceless.

The following is an interview that Far East Films conducted with Michael Hui via email :

Far East Films: Did you always have a gift for comedy, or did it develop over time?

Michael Hui: I think I always had a tendency to make people laugh ever since I was a kid although I may not be aware of it. The skills I used in my films and talk shows I developed over time.

FEF: Did you ever imagine, when you started working in the industry, that you would have such a major impact on Chinese culture?

MH: I never imagine such impact . Like all comedians, we all started as a joke. And in time they saw something behind the jokes and started to look into the matter with greater depth.

FEF: Which of your films are you proudest of and why?

MH: I like ‘The Private Eyes’ and ‘Chicken And Duck Talk’ most.  ‘The Private Eyes’ points outs the conflict between employers and employees. A subject matter which I am very sensitive of since childhood. I grew up watching my father being exploited by his employers. ‘Chicken And Duck Talk’ comments on a very interesting subject : The infiltration of American food culture to the orient which is supposed to be very strong on food culture. It’s seemingly impossible, however, it succeeded… why?

FEF: Which of your films would you like to remake if you had the opportunity?

MH: I seldom consider remaking my films.

FEF: Why didn’t Ricky have bigger roles in ‘Games Gamblers Play’ and ‘The Last Message’?

MH: Because at that time, Ricky is still under contract with Shaw Studios.

FEF: Who are your major influences both as a comedian and a film-maker?

MH: Chaplin, Leung Sing Bor (a Chinese comedian in the 50’s and the 60’s), Billy Wilder and Robert Wise.

FEF: Why do you think Comedy films are so undervalued by critics?

MH: You tend to undervalue things that makes you laugh and remember things that cause you pain.

FEF: How did you come to appear in ‘Cannonball Run’ and what do you think of the finished film?

MH: Golden Harvest invited me to take a cameo role in the picture and I thought it was fun at that time. Well, the finished film is a lot of fun.

FEF: What do you think of the current state of Hong Kong cinema?

MH: The Hong Kong market is at its lowest peak ever as a result of the shrinking box office returns from all over Asia. Piracy of copyright is one of the major reasons.

FEF:  What do you think of Stephen Chow‘s work?

MH: I think he is a brilliant comedian.

FEF: Will there ever be another Hui brothers project?

MH: Have you watched a James Bond movie by the name of ‘Never Say Never Again’?

FEF: What are your future plans?

MH: I am trying to come up with something that I have never tried before. And trying to figure out what future comedy will be like.

FEF: Are you surprised that you have such a big following in the west? Do you have any message for your fans?

MH: I am very happy to know that I have such a big following in the west. Please tell my fans that I will have some new projects coming up soon and thank them for their patience!

Michael Hui Recommended Filmography:
• The Private Eyes
• The Contract
• Chocolate Inspector
• Security Unlimited
• Chicken And Duck Talk
• Games Gamblers Play
• The Magic Touch

Far East Films would like to thank Michael Hui for taking the time to speak with us.