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Part action film part documentary, 'Red Trousers' explores the lives and careers of some of the world's most undervalued professionals: the stunt men and women that contribute so much to Hong Kong cinema.

 

Director Robin Shou, a familiar face from 'Mortal Kombat', explores the ups and downs of this risky business; while much stunt work around the world (particularly in Hollywood) is created via special effects and computer animation, Hong Kong action films rely on the bravery and skills of actual people. Stunt men and women working in Hong Kong films may perform purer, much more dangerous stunts than their American counterparts, but they are sometimes treated more or less as props, and all-too-often given little or no medical attention...

 

Difficult situations, life-threatening work and gruelling training (even during childhood) are just some of the darker aspects of stunt work that Shou is keen to highlight. While the perks of such a career are seemingly nonexistent, the men and women here find great joy in knowing that some of the greatest moments in films would not exist without their artistic contributions.

 

Winner of the Outstanding Achievement In Filmmaking Award at the 2003 Newport Beach Film Festival, 'Red Trousers' features an illustrious list of contributors. In addition to the incomparable Sammo Hung, Lau Kar-Leung (director of 'Drunken Monkey' and the Shaw Bros classic 'Spiritual Boxer') Asian cinema expert Mike Leeder (contemporary of Bey Logan) and stuntman Jude Poyer (stunt co-ordinator on Category III movies with Wong Jing & Clarence Ford) all make appearances.

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