If Police Story showcased Jackie Chan’s fearless stunt work, then Armour of God proved he was becoming one of cinema’s greatest action-adventure filmmakers. Often described as Hong Kong’s answer to Indiana Jones, this globe-trotting adventure follows Jackie as the legendary treasure hunter Asian Hawk, who is recruited to recover the mythical Armour of God before it falls into the hands of a dangerous religious cult.
What follows is a thrilling mix of exotic locations, outrageous action, slapstick comedy and some of the most spectacular stunts of Chan’s career. The film is also remembered for the infamous tree stunt that nearly cost Jackie Chan his life, making it one of the most important films in his remarkable career.
The Film
By 1986, Jackie Chan was operating at the very peak of his powers, and Armour of God captures everything fans love about his films.
As Asian Hawk, Chan effortlessly blends comedy, charisma and incredible athleticism. Whether he’s escaping enemies across rooftops, engaging in elaborate fight sequences or performing gravity-defying stunts, he commands every frame.
Supporting performances from Alan Tam as the wisecracking Alan and Lola Forner as May add plenty of charm, while the chemistry between the cast keeps the adventure moving at a brisk pace.
The action is where the film truly shines. Jackie and his stunt team deliver one inventive set-piece after another, culminating in the legendary finale inside the cult’s underground base. Every fight is choreographed with precision, humour and creativity, reminding viewers why Jackie Chan remains one of the greatest action stars of all time.
While the story borrows inspiration from Hollywood adventure films, Chan gives it a uniquely Hong Kong flavour, creating a film that still feels fresh nearly forty years later.
The 88 Films 4K UHD + Blu-ray Deluxe Collector’s Edition
88 Films has delivered the definitive UK release of Armour of God, giving collectors an outstanding four-disc set packed with premium presentation and extensive bonus material. The limited website-exclusive edition is restricted to 1,000 copies and includes exclusive collector’s packaging.
The brand new 4K restoration sourced from the original 35mm camera negatives is exceptional. Presented in Dolby Vision (HDR10 compatible), the transfer offers superb detail, vibrant colours and natural film grain while retaining the authentic look of the original production. This is easily the best the film has ever looked on home video.
Audio is equally impressive, with multiple Cantonese and English options available, allowing fans to experience the film in their preferred format.
With Commentary by Eastern Film Fans and Kenny B from Podcast on Fire, its lifted from the earlier release but brings you all the fun and facts you need and something were both proud to have contributed to this stunning release.
Special Features
88 Films has assembled an outstanding selection of extras, including:
- Brand-new 4K restoration from the original camera negatives
- Dolby Vision HDR presentation
- Three complete versions of the film
- Three audio commentaries, including one by Kenneth Brorsson & Phil Gillon (Podcast On Fire Network)
- Playing with Dynamite – Assistant directors Stanley Kwan and Alexander Chan reflect on making the film
- Scott Adkins & Matt Routledge discuss the film’s action legacy
- Jackie Chan on VHS – The VPD Years
- New critical appreciation by Radek Sienski
- Archive interviews with Jackie Chan, Willie Chan and editor Peter Cheung
- Hong Kong Movie Tours – Then & Now
- High Upon High – The Armour of Funk anniversary short film and behind-the-scenes featurette
- Multiple original trailers
- Rare promotional material
Collector’s Edition
This deluxe edition is exactly what collectors hope for from a premium boutique release.
Inside the rigid slipcase featuring new artwork by Sean Longmore, you’ll find:
- 80-page perfect-bound collector’s book featuring new essays by C.J. Lines and Thorsten Boose, alongside archive material.
- Double-sided fold-out poster.
- O-ring featuring the original theatrical artwork.
- Four-disc UHD and Blu-ray set.
It’s another example of 88 Films going above and beyond to produce a release worthy of Jackie Chan’s legacy.
Three Versions of the Film
One of the highlights of this release is the inclusion of three different cuts:
- Hong Kong Cut (98 mins) – The definitive version with multiple audio options and newly translated subtitles.
- International Cut (88 mins) – The shorter export version created for audiences outside Asia.
- Japanese Cut (98 mins) – Featuring unique elements, including the original English dub and an alternate outtakes montage.
For Jackie Chan fans, being able to compare these versions is a real treat and adds tremendous collector value.
Final Thoughts
Armour of God remains one of Jackie Chan’s defining films. It combines breathtaking stunt work, globe-trotting adventure, comedy and action into a hugely entertaining package that has stood the test of time.
88 Films has produced what is undoubtedly the ultimate UK edition. The stunning 4K restoration, three film versions, wealth of new special features and beautifully presented collector’s packaging make this an essential purchase for Jackie Chan fans and physical media collectors alike.
Whether you’re upgrading from an older Blu-ray or discovering Armour of God for the first time, this release deserves a place on your shelf.
Film: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4K Presentation: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Special Features: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Collector Value: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall Release: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
