Kung fu and soccer—are there two more popular American pastimes? Though the concept of Shaolin Soccer may not have the same appeal here that it did overseas (it was one of the most successful Hong Kong films in history), it's still an interesting, if not downright bizarre, film from an outsider's point of view. As with a good meal in an exotic restaurant, the mix of flavors and tastes may be foreign, but the skill of the chef is undeniable.

Stephen Chow, who produced, directed, wrote and starred in the film, has made a successful career of spoofing the martial-arts films of his native Hong Kong, particularly those of the late Bruce Lee. For audiences whose exposure to Hong Kong cinema is limited to the serious Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, this may be a welcome introduction to the campy potential of martial-arts films. Though some of the humor may be lost in translation, what remains is an oddball comedy that's as accessible as it is foreign. Shaolin Soccer proves that the international language isn't love, it's physical comedy.

Chow has created a world where anything can happen, from soccer balls that turn into fiery comets to 300-pound players who defy gravity. In fact, all the laws of nature are bendable here, as if the film were taking place in some Matrix-like alternate reality, complete with bullet-time special effects. When Chow's character suddenly breaks into song in the middle of the street for no apparent reason, the ensuing dance number may seem unconventional, but it fits with the silly, irreverent tone of the rest of the film.

The one drawback is that U.S. distributor Miramax has chosen to release the film in a dubbed version rather than using subtitles. Though the dubbing doesn't hinder the film itself, which relies heavily on visual gags, stunts and special effects, it would have been nice to hear the original voices of Chow and the rest of the cast. The decision doesn't say much for the company's faith in American audiences, but it does indicate the intent to reach as wide an audience as possible. Hopefully, the American DVD release will include a subtitle option for purists.