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Back in 1998 or 1999, Rush Hour was the third DVD my brother purchased. At the time, he had just moved out and had bought a DVD player for his home. I would go over on a weekly basis and watch whatever his latest pickup was. That was the first time I watched Rush Hour, and this viewing was only the second time. I had recently watched “Air” and Chris Tucker had a role in it and it was good to see him again, so I was in the mood for some of his classic work.
It’s a fun popcorn flick that sees a Chinese Consulate’s daughter get kidnapped when he arrives in LA. He calls in his best man from Hong Kong (Jackie Chan) to find her, but the FBI saddles him with what they think is an inept LAPD officer (Chris Tucker). The two of them team up to solve the case and attempt to get the girl back alive.
Along the way, there is plenty of action, stunts, and laughs from Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan. Chris Tucker was on fire at this point and Rush Hour is probably his best movie outing outside of the iconic Friday. Jackie Chan had enjoyed a little success in the US up until this point, but Rush Hour was his real coming out party, and he played the role to the hilt.
Rush Hour is an entertaining way to spend 90 minutes, and it breezes by without wearing out its welcome. Recommended for a lightweight and fun movie night.
3 stars.
