Tuesday, September 29, 2015

Mini-Revew - "Bloodsport" (1988)

Bloodsport-1988

This is the epitome of a "no plot, just fight" kung-fu movie. Even hours after watching "Bloodsport," I cannot recall the story, other than - guy goes to martial arts tournament to kick some ass.

There are certainly times for story and character development, but in the hour and a half run time more than 75 minutes is dedicated to watching Jean-Claude Van Damme helicopter - kick, spinning heel kick and perform perfect splits while punching his opponents in their privates, leading him to be the inspiration for Johnny Cage in "Mortal Kombat."

"Bloodsport" has nothing on films like "The Raid: Redemption" and "Ip Man," even though the three have a lot in common. "The Raid: Redemption" might have focused more on the fights, but we cared about these characters climbing to the top of this massive building. They were fighting for something and had a reason to keep going other than to extend the run time.

In "Bloodsport," I never cared if Jean-Claude lost. I knew he would get into a good fight, but whether he was defeated meant nothing to me. He was just another face in the crowd that could punch really well.

Overall, "Bloodsport" was rather forgettable. It certainly didn't do anything wrong, but there was nothing that stood out besides Jean-Claude doing what he always does - Being the most physically fit kung-fu master while having the strangest accent.

Final Grade: C

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