Red Sun Rising

Red Sun Rising is a 1994 action movie, blending elements of the police, mystery, martial arts, and crime genres into a multicultural cinematic potpourri. Directed by Francis Megahy, the film stars Don Wilson - a renowned kickboxing champion turned actor - in the lead role, alongside Terry Farrell and Mako.

Red Sun Rising is set in a dystopian future in Los Angeles, where it becomes the unforeseen battlefield for ancient Eastern evils, mysterious gang wars, and martial arts. Don Wilson plays Thomas Hoshino, a hard-boiled, fearless New York cop of Japanese descent. With his vigilant senses, brusque demeanor and martial arts mastery, Hoshino is not the typical cop but one who’s on a mission to uphold justice and maintain peace.

Armed with a mission to investigate an array of inexplicable murders, Hoshino arrives in LA. These gruesome homicides are far from ordinary, with the victims found completely drained of water, a horror that shakes the city's police department.

Terry Farrell brings to life Lt. Karen Ryder, the astute and tenacious local detective partnered with Hoshino on this case. As a fiercely independent cop, she not only contends with the gruesome murders but also successfully matches strides with the often brash techniques of Hoshino. The contrast and cooperation between the two characters create an engaging, dynamic synergy that significantly drives the narrative.

Adding further depth to the story, we have iconic Japanese-American actor Mako, who is cast as the enigmatic and eccentric coroner. His character uses scientific analysis and wisdom to aid Hoshino and Ryder's quest for answers, serving as an enlightened guide in navigating the mystique and the uncanny.

Red Sun Rising takes advantage of its settings and atmosphere in crafting high octane fight sequences. Don's kickboxing skills are on full display, delivering blows, blocks, and kicks that keep the audience on the edge of their seats. The fight scenes are also not restricted to dark alleys or gloomy warehouses; rather, they explode into locations as varied as rooftops, streets, and restaurants. The performances by other characters on the wrong side of the law are also commendable, raising the stakes for each fight scene.

More than just an action flick, the movie also touches on Japanese folklore and integrates its ominous specter all through the narrative. Red Sun Rising isn't about a simple clash of fists. It delves into ancient evils and forgotten rituals, resulting in a unique blend of a crime thriller and supernatural mystery.

Overall, the film creates an atmosphere of suspense and horror intermingled with bursts of extreme martial arts action. Notably, it doesn’t shy away from addressing deeper themes of heritage, culture clash, and tradition. The Eastern mysticism and Western realism clash, just as much as our heroes clash with villains, resulting in a watch that is both thought-provoking and adrenaline-pumping.

Red Sun Rising distinguishes itself by integrating the relentless pressure and brutality of martial arts with a compelling crime investigation in the backdrop of an increasingly dystopian Los Angeles. This unique blend of genres and influences culminates in an unforgettable experience that satiates the cravings of both action and mystery enthusiasts.

An interesting mix of police procedural, intriguing mystery, and martial arts extravaganza, Red Sun Rising offers a departure from both Hollywood's conventional cop thrillers and standard martial arts flicks. Terraforming the action genre landscape by integrating elements borrowed from East and West, past and future, this film caters to both fans and novices. Amidst flying fists and roundhouse kicks, a story of culture, tradition, and modern horrors unfolds, keeping viewers engaged till the last frame.

Red Sun Rising, with its twisty plot, frenetic action, intriguing Eastern folklore angle, and notable performances, especially from Don Wilson, offers an entertaining, edge-of-the-seat experience for fans of the genre bustling with both action and suspense.