Kickboxer: Retaliation

Kickboxer: Retaliation is a dynamic movie released in 2018. It amalgamates the power-driven world of martial arts, action, and drama. It stars Alain Moussi, Sara Malakul Lane, Maxime Savaria among others and is directed by Dimitri Logothetis. The film is a sequel to the 2016 film Kickboxer: Vengeance and is the seventh instalment of the Kickboxer series.

The groundbreaking plot revolves around the character Kurt Sloane played by Alain Moussi. After winning his fight in Thailand, Sloane vows never to return to the inhumane world of fighting. But situations do not always favor the brave. The story unfurls his struggles when he is forced back into the formidable world he had vowed to leave.

Sloane, now a renowned MMA champion in the USA, is living a peaceful life with his wife, Liu played by Sara Malakul Lane. Just when he thought life was settling down, fate has other plans. Though he had flogged his dark past, it seems to chase him. This cycle of vengeance and retribution is what makes this movie so grippingly amazing.

In a shocking turn of events, Thrust back into Thailand, Sloane is imprisoned by the powerful criminal Thomas Moore, played by Christopher Lambert. Moore's character is meticulously crafted, blurring the lines between organized crime and fight venues. He uses the sport as a cover for his illicit activities and that’s what brings Sloane back into the game.

Character Throwdown is a 6′ 8″ 400 lbs beast played by Game of Thrones’ star Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson. He is showcased as an ultimate weapon of destruction pitted against Sloane. Moore’s devilish ambition includes enslaving Sloane and coercing him to confront this beast.

The movie is soaked in a pool of relentless combat scenes which are portrayed in immaculate details. It is filled with high-stakes, blood-spattering action sequences, designed to invoke the audience's primal senses. The antagonist's unruly strength and our protagonist's agility and resilience fuse into an uncompromising, breath-holding showdown. The scenes are vibrant with a robust display of Muay Thai, MMA, kickboxing, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu techniques, which masterfully exhilarates an adrenaline rush.

The director weaves a beautiful link between the physical and mental growth of the protagonist. As martial arts demand more than physical strength, we see Sloane's inner journey, overshadowing his physical journey. His mental strength, determination, strategic skills are also highlighted, making him a complete warrior.

Sloane is tutored under the legendary Master Durand played by Jean-Claude Van Damme. Van Damme, once the hero of the Kickboxer, is now seen in a wise and experienced role. The mentor-student dynamics between Van Damme and Moussi is one of the exceptional highlights of the film.

Sara Malakul Lane as Liu brings emotional depth to the film. Her unwavering support for her husband injects a wholesome human touch to the otherwise violent world. The intense bond they share magnifies the price Kurt pays to safeguard their love.

The cinematography is a visual treat. The experienced lens of the cinematographer captures Thailand’s scenic beauty and contrasts it with the murky underworld, creating a vibrant visual paradox. The lighting and fight sequencing are commendably executed.

The soundtrack of the film is well tailored, maintaining the tempo and the mood of the scenes without fail. Usage of local music adds an authentic touch to Thai settings. The movie has an interesting cliff notes of humor that is scattered in the right places relieving from the intense high pitched fight sequences.

Kickboxer: Retaliation is a film that caters to martial arts enthusiasts and general audience alike. It offers high-energy fight sequences, intense dramatic moments, and a remarkable performance by the cast.

It is indeed a hardcore action flick that reiterates the phrase "where determination meets destiny." It's a showcase of endurance, courage, fight for love, and honor where every punch thrown and every kick landed echoes the protagonist's roaring spirit.