Movie Review - The Paper Tigers

The Paper Tigers ***½ (out of 5) (PG-13) There have been many films about two or three old guys who must get together and rediscover the skills of their youth for one last surprise adventure, whether for revenge or rescue; heist or protection; drama or comedy. This comedy is about three former martial artists who've gone soft through the years needing to tone up and avenge the death of their teacher. That means fighting much younger and skilled thugs, despite their infirmities.

Although the script is more about character than combat, there's enough of the latter to please most action fans. What's fairly unique here is that this trio has only reached their forties, or so, rather than the usual set of geriatric buddies. One is overweight with a bad knee; another has simply forgotten what made him the best of his era. All have developed other life priorities that kept them from continuing what they'd learned as kids. Even knowing how this will inevitably turn out won't dull the enjoyment of how it evolves, because the guys are so darned likable, and their foes are both formidable and foul.

Nothing profound is intended or included. This one's simply a feel-good offering as an appetizer for the usual light summer flick fare to follow. Enjoy, Grasshoppers. (5/7/21)