Plot: What’s it about?
Chris Wang (Jimmy Tsai) has the ambition to become of the NBA’s all time greatest players, but he lacks the talent to make that happen. He blames his Asian genetics for his lack of skill, which means he fights against the Asian stereotypes he faces. When his brother injures his hand, Chris is asked to take over his place for a while. He is hesitant, since his brother is a top ping pong player, which means he would be in the most stereotypical sport for Asians. But the financial woes of his family and his drive to make his father proud push Chris into the role of table tennis combatant. As he prepares to enter a tournament and defend his family’s pride, can Chris prove his mettle to those around him, including himself?
I was caught off guard by Ping Pong Playa, as what I thought would be a silly, crude comedy turns out to be a fun, family friendly comedy. The filmmakers were able to craft a clean, fun movie that delivers laughs and even some social commentary. The best part is that the filmmakers refuse to settle for crude jokes or rehashed elements, which makes Ping Pong Playa seem quite fresh. Of course, some predictable moments can be found, but the filmmakers still put some nice twists on even those instances. So the story works and the jokes hit the mark, without sinking to aim below the belt. I am not saying this is a modern classic, but good family films aren’t plentiful and Ping Pong Playa is one of the good ones. So if you need a movie your whole household will enjoy, Ping Pong Playa is more than recommended.
Video: How does it look?
Ping Pong Playa is presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen. This transfer isn’t a feast for the eyes, but it is a step up over the DVD version. The print has a good deal of grain, which tends to soften the visuals to an extent. I still think detail is decent, but not up to what we expect from high definition. The colors look bright however, though contrast isn’t as accurate and consistent as it should be. So not a bad treatment, but it won’t turn heads.
Audio: How does it sound?
A solid, but unremarkable DTS HD 5.1 option is here, which proves to be sufficient. This material asks little of the soundtrack outside of dialogue, so the surrounds don’t see much action. The front channels handle most of the audio and it works out well, aside from a lack of presence at times. The dialogue is crystal clear, the music sounds good, and the other elements all seem to fall into place. I do think some scenes could have used a boost, but this is an adequate treatment. This disc also includes subtitles in English and Spanish.
Supplements: What are the extras?
The best of the extras is an audio commentary with director Jessica Yu and star Jimmy Tsai, which proves to be an open and fun session. The two share their thoughts on the project, as well as memories from the shoot and how it all began. You can tell both have a personal stake in the material, which really shines through. This disc also includes some outtakes, deleted scenes, and the film’s theatrical trailer.
