Kế Hoạch Giảm Cân - Kế Hoạch Giảm Cân (2019)

Wen Zhang's "Fat Buddies" (known as "Kế Hoạch Giảm Cân" in Vietnam) from 2019, represents a spirited attempt to reinvigorate the action-comedy and buddy-cop genres within contemporary Chinese cinema. Far from being a mere slapstick parade, the film demonstrates considerable cinematic craft in its extensive use of prosthetics and visual effects to create its "fat suit" characters, making their transformations visually convincing. Wen Zhang himself delivers a remarkable physical performance, expertly balancing comedic clumsiness with surprisingly agile martial arts sequences, echoing the legendary works of Sammo Hung and classic Hong Kong action.

Beyond its primary aim for laughter, the narrative subtly weaves in a message about body positivity, self-acceptance, and perseverance, though at times these themes are overshadowed by pure entertainment. The cinematography and editing maintain a brisk pace, crucial for its chase and combat sequences. The film's placement within the broader Asian cinematic landscape sees it bridging traditional martial arts comedy with modern VFX, offering a refreshing take for genre enthusiasts and positioning it as a notably entertaining entry in its niche.