Having visited Thailand many times since the year after this film was made, and having lived there, one of the first things I wanted to see was whether or not it was filmed in Thailand. From the scene where the plane lands in Bangkok -- Bangkok is not surrounded by mountains, but rather sits on a huge plain -- to the scenes in the jungle (which just don't look right)...the film is clearly not filmed in Thailand. Apparently it was filmed in Mexico. Which is alright...just sayin'. On the other hand, many of the villagers were actually Thai people, and you will hear some authentic Thai language in the film. However, the Thai with the largest speaking part...is actually of Japanese ancestry.
In terms of the plot, it's okay. Just don't expect much of any reality. But it does a nice job of making retro fun. Chase scenes can be very funny...can be. And why couldn't the movie makers realize there are differences between Asian ethic groups, rather than mixing Thai and Chinese and Japanese stereotypes. Really, this is amateur hour.
In terms of the acting. Well, this was that period of time when Tom Hanks was beginning to be a box office draw, but before he learned what real acting was. And in terms of John Candy, at this point in his career, his acting consisted of being a buffoon. He does it well. The remainder of the cast is okay. But this is pretty light fair, so don't expect much.
In fact, that's the key to enjoying this film. Just sit back and prepare to laugh a bit. There's nothing intellectual about it.
In terms of the plot, it's okay. Just don't expect much of any reality. But it does a nice job of making retro fun. Chase scenes can be very funny...can be. And why couldn't the movie makers realize there are differences between Asian ethic groups, rather than mixing Thai and Chinese and Japanese stereotypes. Really, this is amateur hour.
In terms of the acting. Well, this was that period of time when Tom Hanks was beginning to be a box office draw, but before he learned what real acting was. And in terms of John Candy, at this point in his career, his acting consisted of being a buffoon. He does it well. The remainder of the cast is okay. But this is pretty light fair, so don't expect much.
In fact, that's the key to enjoying this film. Just sit back and prepare to laugh a bit. There's nothing intellectual about it.