I think this movie is pretty representative of Jackie Chan's filmography, in that it contains a light plot which is basically an excuse for non stop knockabout comedy and lots of martial arts sequences. While the threadbare plot rips off Indiana Jones and any other big adventure yarns made ten years previously, there's so much action in so many different places that you probably won't notice. This was my first exposure to Jackie Chan and it left me with mixed feelings. On one hand, the stunt work and action was great as expected, even more so when you realise that Chan did it all himself (especially that leap from the motorbike to the hanging crate - awesome stuff). On the other hand, the film does drag a bit and is laden with too much silly old-fashioned comedy and annoying supporting characters.If you're a fan of such comedy then you'll probably end up enjoying this film more than me, but then I'm into serious movies instead of comedies. The acting in the film is typical for a modern Hong Kong production, so make of that what you will. Jackie Chan is strong in the lead role though and his lovable character is impossible to dislike, and frequently impressively athletic in the action sequences. Highlights in the film include the bizarre opening (which pays homage to RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK by having Chan roll down a mountainside in a huge transparent ball), an excellent motorbike chase through the streets and docks of Hong Kong, various fights and chases in an African hotel, and all-action finale in which Chan takes on the bad guys in an underground base and a huge wind tunnel. Although the action is non-violent and aimed at kids and adults alike, the incredible fast moves are worth watching for any viewer and the fast pacing frequently makes it breathtaking, if not a little overwhelming in places. Just as they slow down for some dialogue, another martial arts sequence starts up. OPERATION CONDOR is a fun film which is very clever in its own way, but can't end up feeling a little hollow to those looking for more than just plain action.

When I saw "Armour of God", I was disappointed. Why? Don't ask. Just see it. May be you will understand why. "Armour of God" fails as a Jackie Chan's movie. It fails as a kung fu movie. And it fails as an adventure movie. "Armour of God" is a pretty bad imitation of Indiana Jones movies. But "Operation Condor" is not bad. It is much better than the original. Why? First: There are much more and much better fight scenes. In "Armour of God" there were only two or three fights and they wee not very good. Second: there is much more adventure and more fun. The story is also better than the original, but it is not something special. But you don't need story in a Jackie Chan's movie, do you? You need fun and action. That is it.

This is one of the more popular of Jackie Chans "early" films and with good reason - its a blast. I call it transitional because those who enjoyed movies such as "Shanghai Knights" can enjoy this and so can the followers of Chan's earlier movies.Jackie is an Indiana Jones type character who, with the help of 3 attractive ladies, has to track down some hidden Nazi gold. Following him are two bumbling Muslim terrorist types who are entirely harmless, and later on a group of sheiks and ex-Nazis.With a healthy dose of Kung Fu action and kickass motorcycle chases, as well as gunfights and ample doses of comedy, Operation Condor is a must own for any Jackie fan.Also see Operation Condor 2: The Armor of the Gods, a prequel which is almost as entertaining.

This is one of Jackie Chan's best non-American-made endeavors. Most of his fans whine and moan about his American productions, but I have found each and every one of them to be great fun, and action-packed, which is of course, his intention. Some critics have called him a clown. He should be proud, as it takes years of study and hours of dedicated practice to become a good clown. These skills combined with his exceptional martial arts abilities makes his the unique style of a true virtuoso. I highly admire and enjoy Jackie Chan's drive, ambition, and productions.This time, Jackie is teamed up with the female equivalent of the Three Stooges, to find a cache of Nazi gold which was rumored to be hidden deep in the desert.While the first half of this movie is a bit slow, the time is used for great character development and to establish the plot line. The second half is classic Jackie Chan action, great plot, and many laughs.I was actually a bit impressed with this one, the first time I saw it.This was the production at which I declared that his work was finally beginning to get the investment capital which it deserved. If I'm not mistaken, this was the first high-budget production featuring his talents. The rest were way, WAY low budget.Get through the sometimes slow first half, with horrible dialog, and dubbed voices, to enjoy the action-packed fast-paced, all out rousing second half.It rates a 7/10 from...the Fiend :.