The stage curtains open ...
At the height of martial arts action flicks during the early 90's (ie: Steven Seagal, Jean-Claude Van Damme, and Dolph Lundgren), we have this solid entry by Jeff Speakman - a black belt in American Kenpo. Jeff Sanders (Speakman) revisits his old stomping grounds where he had a difficult childhood, ending up estranged from his family and especially by his overbearing police officer father. While he is there, his mentor and friend, Kim (played by Mako) is murdered and all trails lead to a Korean Mafia head.
As Jeff endeavors to avenge his fallen friend, he fights his way through barriers, both on the home front and on the streets to bring Kim's killer down and justice to the forces behind it. Sharp, well executed martial arts sequences are the order of the day.
This was a fun film. It is a solid addition to the martial arts action genre and keeps the viewer engaged. The dialogue does seem a bit stilted and the acting something to be desired. But the point is, this is an action movie, and that is what you are watching it for. On that count, it delivers. The fight scenes were well choreographed and satisfying. The story is strong enough to support his reasons for being there, and the pacing is good. I really liked this movie and would not hesitate to recommend it.
At the height of martial arts action flicks during the early 90's (ie: Steven Seagal, Jean-Claude Van Damme, and Dolph Lundgren), we have this solid entry by Jeff Speakman - a black belt in American Kenpo. Jeff Sanders (Speakman) revisits his old stomping grounds where he had a difficult childhood, ending up estranged from his family and especially by his overbearing police officer father. While he is there, his mentor and friend, Kim (played by Mako) is murdered and all trails lead to a Korean Mafia head.
As Jeff endeavors to avenge his fallen friend, he fights his way through barriers, both on the home front and on the streets to bring Kim's killer down and justice to the forces behind it. Sharp, well executed martial arts sequences are the order of the day.
This was a fun film. It is a solid addition to the martial arts action genre and keeps the viewer engaged. The dialogue does seem a bit stilted and the acting something to be desired. But the point is, this is an action movie, and that is what you are watching it for. On that count, it delivers. The fight scenes were well choreographed and satisfying. The story is strong enough to support his reasons for being there, and the pacing is good. I really liked this movie and would not hesitate to recommend it.