Well RSP is being too critical, but it's his opinion. 
If u been following Stephen Chow's career thru the years... U can
see the slow but steady metaphosis of his comedic direction. He
came to prominence with Fight Back to School, a few sequels after
that n a few movies in almost the same direction. Next breakthrough
stage was his series of period movies like "Tang Bo Hu Dian Qiu
Xiang", "Shen Shi Guang", etc to name a few (better n more
hilarious in Cantonese). Who can forget his spoof on James Bond
with his China secret service and periodic one as well. His recent
works really mature with "God of Cooking". Stressing on disfiguring
his leading lady n emphasizing more on the bit-part actors or
co-actors.
"Shaolin Soccer" is considered much better cos it has a
well-rounded story, a love thread on the side, a bunch of sidekicks
with defined personalities n special skills to add, a powerful bad
boss to overcome n a climax of a showdown to end it all. A good
story, well-defined characters n special effects were the chief
ingredients for "Shaolin Soccer".
"Kung Fu Hustle" is more of a tribute to KungFu, Hongkong 60s-70s
martial arts movies n the bit-part actors. If u r a follower of HK
movies since the 80s, all the actors involved in key roles shld b
meaningful to u. Both Landlord n Landlady are members of "Qi Xiao
Fu", so is Samo Hung the action co-ordinator. Also "Liang Xiao
Lung" aka the Beast is as well known as the late Bruce Lee, n
current Jackie Chan, collectively known as the "3 Dragons of
HK".
It's like the Ocean11 of HK, getting well known actors/actress to
reprise roles of the bit part actors. So to fully appreciate
Stephen Chow's latest work, u got to look beyond the storyline, the
reference to so many other movies n jus enjoy the color, the style
n the co-ordination of the action sequences, not 4getting the
special effects. After all, this current work of his really
showcases his directing ability n storytelling skill have transcend
to another level, without emphasizing on the individual (with him)
being the focus.
