Mismatched Couples (1985) Movie Review

“Mismatched Couples” is an unusual proposition in that despite starring current genre favourite Donnie Yen and being directed by the legendary Yuen Woo Ping, it is not actually a martial arts film, focusing instead on some very 1980s style break dancing. This having been said, the film certainly gives Yen and Yuen plenty of chances to show off their considerable acrobatic and athletic skills, albeit in a very different manner. An energetic, youthful affair, it works both as a madcap action comedy and as an amusing nostalgia piece, featuring plenty of outrageous fashions and bouncy synth pop music which were no doubt on the cutting edge of cool during its original release back in the heady year of 1985.

The plot follows Yen as Eddie, a young break dancer who has the usual romantic complications, being in love with the vain Kitty and being totally oblivious to the fact that his cousin Stella (May Lo, also in “Happy Ghost 2” and a regular in 1980s Hong Kong comedies) is harbouring her own not-so secret yearnings for him. One day Eddie crosses paths with poor homeless Mini (played by (Yuen Woo Ping himself) and decides to let him move in with him and his older sister (actress Wong Wan Si) – leading to yet more couple confusion. Matters are further complicated by the presence of Power (Dick Wei), a bizarre wandering fighter who seems to be set on challenging Eddie to a duel.

As should be obvious, “Mismatched Couples” is a pretty silly film, not that this is a bad thing at all. Quite the opposite in fact, as by not taking itself too seriously, it actually makes for incredibly fun viewing. The basic set up follows that of a martial arts film, with Eddie gradually tempering his skills through a series of hilarious dance-off duels before the final battle with Power, and with Mini taking on a vague mentor role to guide him on his way. The relationship aspects of the film work surprisingly well alongside this, mainly due to the charismatic performances of the two stars. In fact, all things considered the film is far more coherent than other similarly themed Hong Kong productions of the time, and although not exactly gripping, the story certainly keeps the viewer engaged throughout.

Whilst there are a few kung fu scenes, mostly towards the end, the film mainly revolves around its dancing sequences. These give viewers the chance to see Yen using his talents in a very different way – dancing down the street, bouncing on top of cars, bopping around as he gets dressed, and so on. All of this is expertly choreographed and handled by Yuen, and the film is a dynamic, fast moving affair, with some genuinely acrobatic and impressive dance moves. Of course, much of the film is played for laughs, with Yen indulging in some dignity free antics, appearing in drag and frequently throwing himself around with a huge camp grin on his face. Thankfully, the comedy is generally effective, and Yuen stays away from anything too mean-spirited, weaving in the usual farcical relationship misunderstandings and the expected slapstick pratfalls.

His direction is solid throughout, and the film is fast moving and light on its feet. Inevitably, the proceedings have a very 1980s look and gloss, and it stands as a definite time capsule piece, tapping into the youth culture of the time. This makes it fun, even for those not young enough to have experienced the time or to recognise the songs on the soundtrack, and the film does have a rather innocent air, with all of the cast members seeming to be enjoying themselves immensely.

As a result, it’s hard not to be drawn into all the wacky capers, and “Mismatched Couples” is sure to put a smile on the face of any viewer, even those who don’t necessarily find the idea of a break dancing film immediately appealing. It should certainly be of interest to fans of Donnie Yen, who here gives an early look at the incredible skills which would later make him a star.

Woo-ping Yuen (director) / Peace Group, Chiu Jing-Hong, Jeng Man-Wa (screenplay)
CAST: Donnie Yen … Eddie
Woo-ping Yuen … Mini
Wan-Si Wong … Ah Ying
May Lo Mei-Mei … Stella
Mandy Chan … Colourful Punk
Kenny Perez … Kenny
Dick Wei … Fight champion