That's The Way I Like It

In late '70s Singapore, local Ah Hock (Adrian Pang), an early twentysomething kung fu junkie grinding out a pedestrian existence as a grocery clerk, is dismayed to find that the local cinema is trying out a new kick, preempting their usual Bruce Lee fare for a Saturday Night Fever knock-off titled Forever Fever. Much to his surprise, Hock takes an immediate liking to the genre, and just a few disco dancing lessons later he is outstepping Travolta himself. Encouraged by his childhood friend Mei (Madeline Tan), who becomes his dancing partner, Hock decides to enter a big dance competition, but familial pressures and some unexpected romantic entanglements threaten his shot at the trophy. An impressive directorial bow by writer-director Glen Goei, this romantic comedy has considerable weaknesses--including a plot that swings between predictability and absurdity and an uneven supporting cast--but it's also got a wonderful spirit, energy, and buoyant good-nature that keeps you rooting for it despite the flaws. Adrian Pang demonstrates considerable charm in this, his feature debut, and we could be witnessing the breakout of a major Asian player. Recommended. [NOTE: This had a limited 1999 theatrical run under the title Forever Fever.] (S. C. Sickles)