Detective Chinatown 2

Introduction

Detective Chinatown 2 is a Chinese comedy-mystery film directed by Chen Sicheng, serving as the sequel to the 2015 hit Detective Chinatown. The film stars Wang Baoqiang and Liu Haoran, who reprise their roles from the first installment, alongside new cast members such as Xiao Yang, Natasha Liu Bordizzo, and Wang Xun. Set in the bustling city of New York, the film offers a blend of comedy and mystery, infused with unique elements of Chinese culture. Released on February 16, 2018, during the Chinese New Year, the film quickly captured the attention of domestic and international audiences, establishing itself as a significant success in the Chinese film market.

Plot

In Detective Chinatown 2, the story follows the eccentric detective duo as they travel to New York City, drawn by an international detective competition. The plot thickens when they become embroiled in a series of grisly serial murders. Adding an intriguing layer to the mystery is the use of feng shui, or geomancy, as a key element in solving the crimes. The film unfolds against the vibrant backdrop of New York's iconic landmarks, including Times Square, Fifth Avenue, and the Brooklyn Bridge. With a blend of humor and suspense, the film navigates the complexities of the case, while showcasing the detectives' unique approach to crime-solving that combines traditional Chinese elements with modern detective work.

Cast

The film features a talented ensemble cast led by comedian Wang Baoqiang, who reprises his role as Tang Ren, the bumbling yet brilliant detective. Liu Haoran returns as Qin Feng, Tang Ren's sharp-witted young partner. New additions to the cast include Xiao Yang, known for his work in Some Like it Hot, who brings his comedic flair to the film. Natasha Liu Bordizzo, a Chinese-Australian actress recognized for her role in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon 2: The Green Destiny, joins the cast, adding an international dimension to the film. Comedian Wang Xun also plays a significant role, contributing to the film's comedic elements.

Production

Directed by Chen Sicheng, Detective Chinatown 2 marks a significant step in the franchise's evolution, transitioning from Thailand, the setting of the first film, to the cosmopolitan city of New York. Chen Sicheng, a fan of detective novels, aimed to develop the series into a Chinese equivalent of the Sherlock Holmes franchise. The film was shot on location in New York, utilizing iconic sites such as Times Square, Madison Avenue, and the New York Public Library. It was the first Chinese-language film made in collaboration with American unions, highlighting an international production effort. The production also involved a 45-day shooting schedule, during which the cast and crew navigated the unique challenges of filming in a major American city.

Release

Detective Chinatown 2 premiered on February 16, 2018, coinciding with the first day of the Chinese New Year, a strategic release date that capitalized on the festive season's high movie-going activity. The film opened in 115 theaters across North America in a limited release, simultaneous with its wide opening in China. It quickly became a box office sensation, grossing over $1.98 million in North America and a staggering $531.9 million worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing films in Chinese cinema history.

Sequel

Following the success of Detective Chinatown 2, the franchise continued with Detective Chinatown 3, which was released during the Spring Festival holiday in 2021. Directed by Chen Sicheng, the third installment returned to Asia, setting its story in Tokyo. It promised to build on the comedic and mystery elements that have become the trademark of the series, further expanding the franchise's international appeal.