Best of the Best

The 1989 movie Best of the Best is a riveting martial arts sports drama directed by Robert Radler and written by Paul Levine and Phillip Rhee. The movie features Eric Roberts, James Earl Jones, Phillip Rhee, and Sally Kirkland in the lead roles. The film tosses its audiences in the midst of intense combat, culture clash, personal growth, and the spirit of unity, while maintaining a steady pace to depict personal as well as team harmony and dynamism.

In the movie, Eric Roberts plays the character of Alex Grady, a widowed single father who works in a car factory. His participation in the competitive sport was halted by a shoulder injury but Alex's martial arts enthusiasm remains undimmed. Alex, along with four other martial artists, is selected to represent the United States in an international Taekwondo competition. Tommy Lee (performed by Phillip Rhee), an Asian-American fighter who is plagued by a personal vendetta against a Korean rival due to a tragic backstory, is among the chosen ones. The remaining squad comprises diverse personalities including Italian-American Travis Brickley (Chris Penn), African-American Virgil Keller (John Dye), and the daring Buddhist Sonny Grasso (David Agresta).

James Earl Jones, donned with the responsibility of being the team coach, adds an intense and inspiring presence on the screen. As a stern and disciplined trainer, he guides the team to participate in the unifying spirit of the sport and not just aim for victory. His character is not only there to guide them through the sport but also aids in challenging each of this eclectic group to grapple with their individual demons and overcome their personal hurdles. Sally Kirkland, an Oscar-nominated actress, portrays the physiotherapist and spiritual guide of the team.

Combined, they form a motley crew who needs to wade through individual differences, past traumas, and personality clashes to create an unbreakable bond that can stand against the formidable Korean team they are to compete against. Their personal trials and tribulations form a significant part of the emotional undercurrent woven into the fabric of the movie narrative.

The film does not shy away from presenting Taekwondo as more than just an aggressive combat sport. There’s a sense of respect, discipline, and composure which the martial art form commands and which is beautifully portrayed in the training sequences, adding a unique flavor to the narrative. The intense training the team undergoes is a significant part of the film and provides an interesting insight into the dedication, discipline, and hard work required to excel at something.

The undercurrent of cultural nuances is also depicted quite beautifully with the personal rivalry between Tommy and his Korean adversary painting a clear picture of how determination, skill, and the spirit of sportsmanship combine to create an unforgettable climax.

The characters are brilliantly etched, and each has its own place and role in the progression of the movie. Eric Roberts as Alex Grady gives a gripping performance of a determined father and an aspiring martial artist. James Earl Jones as the coach stands out with its authoritative and commanding presence and his voice that adds depth to his character. However, every actor in the cast, including Sally Kirkland and Phillip Rhee, give credible performances that add layers to the narrative.

Beautifully shot and executed, Best of the Best offers audiences some of the most intense, meticulously choreographed, and gripping fight sequences to be seen on the big screen. Accompanied by a poignant score, the film does a laudable job balancing the gravity of a thrilling sports drama with the inherent emotional and cultural connotations of its premise.

In the end, Best of the Best gives its audience an insightful and inspiring tale of team spirit, personal growth, cultural understanding, and the true meaning of being a sportsman. It not only stands as a sports drama but also as an emotionally gripping narrative that explores much deeper aspects of unity, friendship, grief, and resilience. Don't miss this classic if you enjoy a hearty story of triumph, perseverance, and integrity.