Bloodsport

release year: 1988
genre: martial arts
viewing setting: home DVD, 11/8/02

synopsis: An American travels to Hong Kong to participate in the toughest of all illegal fighting tournaments.

impressions: This is about as close as you can get to the perfect movie: a basic plot, very little quiet time, and fight upon fight featuring a variety of styles and an excess of brutality. The love interest is purely token and never really has a chance of talking the hero out of his goal. This is a good thing, as he not only participates in numerous fights, but watches as others do. Even after almost 20 years, this movie is still a classic that entertains by virtue of fighters kicking the hell out of each other.

things to watch for: Pretty much any of the fights.

acting: This was Van Damme's first starring role, and probably his best.

funny commentary about this movie: Seanbaby's movies page

final word: This is the grandfather of illegal fighting tournament movies and is a must-see for fans of such.

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