With Kung Fu Rookie, Timur Baktybayev introduced himself to the world via an undercover remake of Jackie Chan’s classic RUMBLE IN THE BRONX. It was a humble take on the classic, yet it captured the right essence, with the Kazakh actor mimicking the “Hong Kong Tornado” by replicating his every move and camera mannerism. There is no doubt that Chan is his idol and that Baktybayev knows his filmography by heart.
However, despite that film’s indisputable quality, there is little virtue in pure imitation. It is difficult to carve out a name for yourself while standing in the shadow of a legend—especially someone like Chan, who acts as a total eclipse to anyone standing before him. That is why Super Courier feels like a genuine step forward for Baktybayev, who not only stars in the film but also serves as its producer.
The influence of Jackie Chan and classic Hong Kong cinema remains the backbone of this adventure. Timur plays a food delivery driver who, after a chance display of martial arts prowess, is hired by a judge to protect his daughter. When she is inevitably kidnapped, he is forced to transform into a true action hero.
The script feels like something Jackie himself could have filmed in the eighties. It is an action-comedy where Timur, backed by a highly skilled stunt team, pays homage to that era of cinema from the former British colony that brought so much delight. Physically, the actor continues to emulate his idol: the falls and strikes are impactful, and the choreography is highly inventive, making clever use of all the surrounding furniture. The film even follows tradition by showing outtakes during the final credits, revealing the physical risks taken during production, such as Timur’s accidents while filming stunts involving glass tables.
The most important takeaway is that Super Courier is a thoroughly entertaining serving of martial arts cinema. It is as enjoyable as the films from another time that it seeks to emulate, proving to be a fun and energetic experience for action fans.
The film’s journey is far from over, as it stands as a top contender for the Quixote Awards at the upcoming Toledo Action Festival and Expo (TACFEST). Set to take place from May 13 to 16, 2026, across the Spanish towns of Yuncos and Illescas (Toledo), the festival will provide the perfect stage for Baktybayev’s homage to Hong Kong cinema to be recognized by international experts and action film enthusiasts alike.
