Ninja Badass

Ninja Badass is a revolutionary, 2020 indie martial arts comedy-drama directed by Ryan Harrison, who also performs as the leading character in the film. The film derives its charm and appeal from its unique spin on the conventional 'hero's journey' by blending elements of both humor and mystique while preserving the seriousness of a martial arts flick. This harmonious blend of differing genres gives Ninja Badass a captivating twist, setting it apart from the typical action hero adventures seen on the big screen.

Ryan Harrison demonstrates a brilliant performance as the protagonist, Darren aka Ninja Badass. Darren is an ordinary man, navigating his everyday life which lacks excitement and thrill. His mundane existence is drastically altered following a peculiar event that instigates his journey to becoming the crime-fighting entity known as Ninja Badass. Trapped in a cosmic narrative, yet to be understood by him, Darren finds himself in an oddly comedic yet serious reality ensnared within constant danger and intrigue.

Ryan Harrison, in addition to his stellar performance as the lead actor, displays unmatched prowess in scripting and direction. His portrayal of Darren's journey is not just a transformation of a commoner to a quintessential superhero but also subtly underlines the spiraling descent into the world of confusion, self-doubt, and relentless questioning. However, the film brilliantly maintains a fine line between delving into philosophical meanderings and retaining its light-hearted tones with plenty of witty dialogue and comic timing.

At his side, we see the charismatic Darrell Francis playing the role of a wise sage, a guiding figure for Darren. Darrell's character is not just a mentor but also a unique interpretation of the archaic 'wise man' found in traditional hero tales. He exudes a mystical aura which greatly compliments the overlying theme of the surreal universe in which our protagonist operates. He guides Darren, helping him decipher this strange new life he finds himself in, aiding him in facing the trials and tribulations that he must endure to transform into Ninja Badass.

Supplementing the main cast, we have Mitch Schlagel, who brings a unique persona to the antagonist role, creating a memorable villainous character that’s a mix of elegant malevolence and sassy undertones. His character serves as an intriguing counterpoint to the protagonist, adding another layer of depth to the ongoing conflict in Darren's life.

Ninja Badass is an exceptional example of how comedy can be intertwined with serious themes without undermining its gravity or losing touch with its humor. The film captivates with its witty humor, intrigue, and the promise of unexpected twists and turns. Its narrative thrives on juxtaposing the ordinary with the extraordinary, the mundane with the mystical, an intentionally awkward hero with an equally slick villain creating tension and shifts that keep you on the edge of your seat.

Besides the engaging narrative and top-notch performance, the film boasts excellently choreographed fight scenes which do not feel exaggerated or staged. Instead, they maintain an organic blend with the storyline and characters, proving to be both eye-catching and synchronized with the narrative.

Moreover, the cinematography used in Ninja Badass deserves special mention as it meticulously encapsulates the quirky essence of the plot. From the dimly-lit rooms to the seemingly endless, open sky, the film metaphorically suggests an expansive universe beyond what our protagonist can understand. The moody lighting, offbeat framing, and engaging camera movements inject an unrivaled visual dynamism.

Score a huge point for the movie's soundtrack that provides a pulse-pounding rhythm for Darren's transformation into Ninja Badass. The background score remains integral to the narration, fluctuating between comic, dramatic, and engaging themes that elevate the viewing experience to a whole new level.

Summing up, Ninja Badass is a refreshing take on the classic hero's journey narrative. It artfully weaves the seriousness of martial arts, the absurdity of comedy, and the mystery of the unknown into a groundbreaking film experience. The remarkable performances by Ryan Harrison, Darrell Francis, and Mitch Schlagel, along with the noteworthy direction by Harrison, make it an unquestionably memorable cinematic experience. Ninja Badass is an enthralling combination of sly comedy, martial arts, and existential mystery – an unpredictable ride for those who dare to embark.