Is 1:99 Shorts Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, 1:99 Shorts is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Comedy movies.
It features a runtime of 72 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
1:99 Shorts Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 2003, 1:99 Shorts enters the Comedy genre with a narrative focused on Shorts made by 11 directors in order to fight against the SARS epidemy that occurred in China and Hong Kong in 2003. Under the direction of Wai Ka-Fai, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Andy Lau. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, 1:99 Shorts offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, 1:99 Shorts resonates with current cultural themes in the Comedy space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of early 2026, 1:99 Shorts is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of 1:99 Shorts centers on a unique premise within the Comedy landscape. Shorts made by 11 directors in order to fight against the SARS epidemy that occurred in China and Hong Kong in 2003. The shorts were produced by the Information Service Departement of the Government of HK SAR. The aim was to bring back confidence to the HK popuation. The running-time is 1 to 2 minutes for each short.12 Short films: 1-"Rhapsody", director: Johnny To and Wai Ka-fai; 2-"My Sow Is Not Feeling Well", director: Fruit Chan; 3-"Smile", director: Teddy Chen; 4-"Of a Cause" (Animation) director: Tsui Hark; 5-"Hong Kong - A Winner", director: Stephen Chow; 6-"Who's Miss Hong Kong?", director: Joe Ma; 7-"Family of Heroes", director: Alex Law and Mabel Cheung; 8-"Until Then", director: Gordon Chan and Dante Lam; 9- "McDull 1:99" director: Brian Tse; 10-"Spring, 2003", director: Peter Chan; 11-"A Glorious Future", director: Andrew Lau and Alan Mak; 12-"Making of 1:99", director: Wong Shou-Ping. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 2003 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of 1:99 Shorts has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a 1:99 Shorts sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for 1:99 Shorts (2003): with an audience rating of 6.3/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Comedy, Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
1:99 Shorts has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.3/10, and global collection metrics, 1:99 Shorts stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2003 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 1:99 Shorts movie hit or flop?
1:99 Shorts has received mixed reviews with a 6.3/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is 1:99 Shorts worth watching?
1:99 Shorts is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Comedy, Drama movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch 1:99 Shorts online?
1:99 Shorts may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is 1:99 Shorts movie hit or flop?
1:99 Shorts has received mixed reviews with a 6.3/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is 1:99 Shorts worth watching?
1:99 Shorts is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Comedy, Drama movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch 1:99 Shorts online?
1:99 Shorts may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
What is the story of 1:99 Shorts?
1:99 Shorts is a Comedy, Drama movie that follows: Shorts made by 11 directors in order to fight against the SARS epidemy that occurred in China and Hong Kong in 2003. The shorts were produced by the Information Service Departement of the Government o...
Is 1:99 Shorts family friendly?
Yes, 1:99 Shorts is generally suitable for family viewing as it is a Comedy, Drama movie.
What language is 1:99 Shorts available in?
1:99 Shorts is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
Shorts made by 11 directors in order to fight against the SARS epidemy that occurred in China and Hong Kong in 2003. The shorts were produced by the Information Service Departement of the Government of HK SAR. The aim was to bring back confidence to the HK popuation. The running-time is 1 to 2 minutes for each short.12 Short films: 1-"Rhapsody", director: Johnny To and Wai Ka-fai; 2-"My Sow Is Not Feeling Well", director: Fruit Chan; 3-"Smile", director: Teddy Chen; 4-"Of a Cause" (Animation) director: Tsui Hark; 5-"Hong Kong - A Winner", director: Stephen Chow; 6-"Who's Miss Hong Kong?", director: Joe Ma; 7-"Family of Heroes", director: Alex Law and Mabel Cheung; 8-"Until Then", director: Gordon Chan and Dante Lam; 9- "McDull 1:99" director: Brian Tse; 10-"Spring, 2003", director: Peter Chan; 11-"A Glorious Future", director: Andrew Lau and Alan Mak; 12-"Making of 1:99", director: Wong Shou-Ping.
Critic Reviews
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