ROANOKE TIMES 
                      Copyright (c) 1997, Roanoke Times

DATE: Friday, January 10, 1997               TAG: 9701100134
SECTION: EXTRA                    PAGE: 1    EDITION: METRO 
                                             TYPE: MOVIE REVIEW
SOURCE: MIKE MAYO CORRESPONDENT

CHAN FANS, OTHERS WILL LIKE 'FIRST STRIKE' ACTION, COMEDY

"Jackie Chan's First Strike" continues the martial arts star's comedy that has been so popular in "Rumble in the Bronx" and "Super Cop."

The same people made all three films and they've refined the formula down to its basics. The result is an engaging action movie that appeals to all ages. The only real change that's been made is a softening of the violence and language from an R-rating to a PG-13.

Once again, Chan is playing a Hong Kong cop known simply as Jackie. The plot is a ridiculous confection about a stolen Russian warhead. It's meant to shift the locale from Hong Kong to the Ukraine to Australia. The big scenes are set on snowmobiles, in a big aquarium and at a funeral. Though the pace is a little slow at first, the film ends with long, involving chase sequences.

Chan has been quick to admit the influence of Buster Keaton and Harold Lloyd on his work. He's playing essentially the same character they invented - the little guy who's surrounded by larger enemies and who survives with self-deprecating wit, fast moves and humor. And like those early screen clowns, Jackie Chan does his own stunts.

This film contains some of his most inventive creations. He can do amazing things with such simple props as a folding table, a piece of scaffolding or a step ladder. Working with director/stunt coordinator Stanley Tong, Chan has choreographed the physical action into fluid dance routines. And, as they've done in earlier films, they include footage of mistakes and slip-ups at the end. Those shots ought to help parents persuade young would-be Jackie Chans not to try these tricks at home.

Seen simply as an energetic, colorful action flick "Jackie Chan's First Strike" has everything - including wonderfully bad dubbing - that fans of the genre want to see. The notable absence of strong language and graphic violence makes it a good choice for younger viewers.

``Jackie Chan's First Strike" ***

A New Line release playing at the Salem Valley 8. 80 minutes. Rated PG-13 for comic violence.

LENGTH: Short :   47 lines
ILLUSTRATION: PHOTO:  "Jackie Chan's First Strike" has everything - including 
          wonderfully bad dubbing - that fans will want to see. color.

















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