Kickboxer (1989) Review in 2025
Kickboxer is an action-packed martial arts film that follows the story of an American kickboxer who travels to Thailand to avenge his brother's death.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for family viewing due to intense martial arts violence and some mild language.
CineReview Recommendation
Kickboxer is a must-watch for fans of martial arts action films. It's a classic that holds up well even today, with impressive fight scenes and a compelling storyline.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The movie takes a dramatic turn when Kurt Sloan, the main character, discovers that his brother's death was not an accident, but a murder orchestrated by the ruthless Tong Po, a skilled kickboxer who will stop at nothing to win.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear goal for the main character to avenge his brother's death. However, the plot is somewhat predictable and lacks originality.
acting8.00/10
The acting is solid, with Jean-Claude Van Damme delivering a memorable performance as Kurt Sloan. The supporting cast is also effective, especially Dennis Alexio as the villainous Tong Po.
characters7.00/10
The characters are well-developed, especially Kurt Sloan, played by Jean-Claude Van Damme. However, some characters feel underutilized and lack depth.
direction6.00/10
The direction is average, with some effective action sequences and dramatic moments. However, the pacing can be slow at times, and some scenes feel overly long.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is excellent, with stunning locations and well-choreographed fight scenes. The use of lighting and camera angles adds to the overall tension and excitement.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Engaging storyline, impressive fight scenes, and solid acting performances make Kickboxer a memorable watch.
Cons
Predictable plot, slow pacing, and some underutilized characters are notable drawbacks.
Notable Quotes
"I'm gonna make you a star, Kurt!"
"You're a dead man, Sloan!"
