New York Ninja

New York Ninja is an over-the-top, retro-style action film from 2021. The movie features a stellar cast that includes martial arts sensation Don "The Dragon" Wilson, horror icon Michael Berryman, and cult scream queen Linnea Quigley. Together, their performances bring back the nostalgic charm of the 80s and 90s action flicks. Infused with an engaging narrative, superb martial arts choreography, and gritty cityscapes, New York Ninja is a pure throwback to the high-octane, martial arts cinema of decades past.

The plot revolves around John (Don Wilson), an unassuming journalist leading a peaceful life with his wife in bustling New York City. His world turns upside down when a group of ruthless criminals ruthlessly usurps his idyllic life, setting him on a path of revenge. Embodying the cloak of a mysterious vigilante known as the ‘New York Ninja’, he becomes the city's shadowy protector, taking on the criminal underworld and dark forces prey on the city.

Don Wilson shines as John, proving to us once again why he's known as "The Dragon." His martial arts sequences are mesmerizing, delivering a spectacular array of kicks, punches, and heart-stopping stunts. John's transformation from a mild-mannered journalist to a vigilante ninja is a journey that Wilson portrays convincingly, powerfully manifesting an inner struggle juxtaposing his peaceful past with revenge-fuelled present.

Michael Berryman, known for his memorable horror roles, turns in a chilling performance as one of the movie's main antagonists. Berryman's character is as menacing as it is mysterious, a perfect target for Wilson's New York Ninja. Their onscreen encounters are filled with tension, and the inevitable showdown between them promises for an unforgettable confrontation.

Linnea Quigley, a veteran from the golden era of horror and B-movies, brings another layer of character and complexity to the film. Her portrayal of a street-smart, resourceful woman caught in the crossfire adds depth and a certain charm that subtly balances the intense action sequences.

The film embraces its 80s styling wholeheartedly, from the synth-heavy score to the neon-lit night scenes, and the quippy one-liners. One can't help but feel a rush of nostalgia and the excitement of that period's action cinema woven into the very fabric of New York Ninja. The movie uses a variety of locations within New York City, presenting the city, in all its vibrant chaos and unyielding resilience, as not just a backdrop but as an important character in its own right.

While New York Ninja pays homage to past eras, it doesn't shy away from putting forth its own iconic moments and creating its unique identity within the genre. The martial arts choreography, staged on the city's rooftops, alleys, subway tunnels, and iconic cityscapes, is brilliantly executed, allowing it to convincingly channel the raw energy of street-style fighting with precision and creativity.

Being a definitive entry in the martial arts genre, New York Ninja stands out due to its unique narrative style. It is an experimental mix of old-school action supplemented with neo-noir elements. It brilliantly portrays an underdog story, highlighting themes of resilience, justice, and personal transformation amid its high-flying kicks and explosive action scenes.

With a heavy dose of stylish retro visuals, a groovy soundtrack, and exciting martial arts scenes, New York Ninja is more than a time capsule for lovers of 80s and 90s martial arts films. It's also a vibrant, exciting action film that stands on its own merits. It is an outrageous, gritty, and ultimately entertaining homage to the martial arts genre. On the whole, the movie is an unapologetic, fun-filled ride that takes you back in time while delivering some unforgettable cinematic moments.

Anyone with a penchant for classic martial arts films, or a love for the neon-heavy aesthetic of yesteryears, should find New York Ninja hugely entertaining. In the hands of a dedicated team of filmmakers, it embraces its eccentricity and its influences to create an enjoyable homage film that will delight many a film aficionado. Underneath its addictive action sequences, there is a beating heart filled with the echoes of a bygone era that makes New York Ninja an unforgettable experience.