Kickboxer: Vengeance (2016) Movie Review
Kickboxer: Vengeance (2016): A Reboot with High-Kicking Action
Kickboxer: Vengeance, directed by John Stockwell and released in 2016, is a reboot of the classic 1989 martial arts film Kickboxer. Starring Alain Moussi, Jean-Claude Van Damme, and Dave Bautista, the film aims to revive the iconic franchise with a blend of nostalgia and modern action. While it pays homage to the original, it also attempts to carve out its own identity with updated choreography and a fresh storyline.
Plot Summary
Kickboxer: Vengeance follows the story of Kurt Sloan (Alain Moussi), a former kickboxing champion whose life is turned upside down when his brother, Eric Sloan (Darren Shahlavi), is killed in a brutal fight against the formidable Thai fighter Tong Po (Dave Bautista). Devastated by his brother’s death, Kurt decides to seek revenge and travels to Thailand to train and face Tong Po in the ring.
With the help of his mentor, Xian Chow (Jean-Claude Van Damme), and the guidance of the legendary fighter, Kurt undergoes intense training to prepare for his ultimate showdown. The film follows Kurt’s journey of vengeance and redemption as he battles to honor his brother’s legacy and overcome personal obstacles.
Characters and Performances
Alain Moussi as Kurt Sloan: Moussi takes on the lead role with a mix of physical prowess and emotional depth. His portrayal of Kurt captures the character’s determination and sense of justice. As a martial artist, Moussi performs his own stunts and fight scenes, showcasing impressive skills and dedication to the role.
Jean-Claude Van Damme as Xian Chow: Van Damme returns to the franchise as a mentor figure, providing a link to the original film. His performance as Xian Chow adds a layer of wisdom and experience, and his fight scenes are a highlight of the film. Van Damme’s presence brings a sense of nostalgia and authenticity to the reboot.
Dave Bautista as Tong Po: Bautista plays the antagonist with a menacing and imposing presence. His portrayal of Tong Po is both physically intimidating and convincingly ruthless. Bautista’s performance provides a formidable challenge for Moussi’s character and drives the film’s central conflict.
Gina Carano as Lexie: Carano appears as Lexie, a strong and supportive character who aids Kurt in his quest for vengeance. Her role adds an additional layer to the storyline and provides some engaging interactions with the lead.
Direction and Action
John Stockwell’s direction emphasizes high-energy fight scenes and dramatic training montages. The film’s choreography, led by stunt coordinators and martial arts experts, delivers intense and well-executed action sequences. The fight scenes are a major draw, with a combination of traditional kickboxing techniques and modern cinematic flair.
The film’s visual style and cinematography capture the vibrant setting of Thailand, adding an authentic backdrop to the action. The direction balances the dramatic elements with the martial arts sequences, though some may find the story elements predictable.
Themes and Analysis
Kickboxer: Vengeance explores themes of revenge, redemption, and the pursuit of justice. Kurt’s journey is one of personal growth and overcoming adversity as he seeks to honor his brother’s memory and confront his own inner demons. The film’s themes are familiar within the martial arts genre but are presented with a modern twist.
The reboot pays tribute to the original film while incorporating contemporary elements, including updated fight choreography and a refreshed storyline. While it may not offer groundbreaking storytelling, it succeeds in delivering the action and intensity expected from a martial arts film.
Streaming Services and Availability
For viewers in America, Kickboxer: Vengeance is available on several streaming platforms. You can watch the film on:
Amazon Prime Video: Available for streaming with a subscription or for rental/purchase.
Apple TV: Available for rental/purchase.
Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rental/purchase.
Vudu: Available for rental/purchase.
YouTube Movies: Available for rental/purchase.
Hulu: Availability may vary; check the platform for current status.
Final Verdict
Kickboxer: Vengeance (2016) is a reboot that successfully revives the classic martial arts film with modern action and a fresh storyline. Alain Moussi delivers a strong performance as the lead, while Jean-Claude Van Damme’s return adds a nostalgic touch. Dave Bautista’s portrayal of the antagonist provides a compelling challenge for the hero.
While the film’s plot may be predictable, its focus on high-octane fight sequences and martial arts choreography makes it an entertaining watch for fans of the genre. Kickboxer: Vengeance is a fitting tribute to the original film and a solid action film in its own right.
In conclusion, Kickboxer: Vengeance offers a thrilling blend of action and nostalgia, making it a worthwhile watch for martial arts enthusiasts and fans of the original Kickboxer.
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