Three Wishes (1988)

Three Wishes has that unmistakable late-’80s Hong Kong spark: a gleeful mash-up of supernatural mischief and warm-hearted comedy that turns a ghost story into something oddly tender. Billy Chan Wui-Ngai keeps the vibe playful and brisk, letting the afterlife rules and earthly chaos collide in ways that feel imaginative rather than grim, while Anita Mui brings her trademark charisma and comic timing that can make even the strangest moments feel human. It’s the kind of film that sneaks in a little sweetness about second chances and conscience without ever getting preachy, just buoyant and entertaining. If you don’t enjoy genre-blending or quirky, folklore-tinged setups, it may not be your taste—but if you do, this one’s an easy crowd-pleaser with a wicked sense of fun.

Three Wishes is trying to mash up broad Hong Kong comedy with a supernatural morality tale about greed, karma, and a ghost who can’t quite commit to being evil. The premise is fun and Anita Mui brings her usual spark, but the tone can feel like it’s changing channels mid-scene—horror setup, slapstick bits, then sudden sentiment—so if you want a clean, consistent genre ride, this may test your patience. The plot is more of a chaotic chain of setups than a tightly built story, and the humor leans old-school and hit-or-miss depending on your taste. If you enjoy 80s Hong Kong “anything goes” energy and don’t mind rough edges, there’s charm here; if you’re after sharp comedy or real scares, you’ll probably walk away underwhelmed.