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Cast:
Jean
Claude Van Damme
Bolo
Yeung
Donald
Gibb
Forest
Whitaker
Roy
Chiao
Leah
Ayres
Action:
Frank
Dux
Producer:
Mark
DiSalle
Director:
Newt
Arnold
Score:
  
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BLOODSPORT
AKA:
Blood Sport
Year:
1988 Reviewer: Tony
Ryan
The
original 'Bloodsport' is widely regarded as Jean Claude Van
Damme's breakthrough film, and has become a cult classic
amongst b-movie action fans. This is not without some
justification, as although it is another in a very long line
of corny tournament movies, it probably ranks as one of the
better examples.
Apparently
based (quite loosely I reckon) on a true story, JCVD plays
Frank Dux who goes AWOL from the military to compete in the
underground martial arts tournament known as the "Kumite".
There
is not much to say about the plot, as it's a rehash of every
other tournament movie you've seen. There are some interesting
characters thrown in, including Bolo (from 'Enter
the Dragon') as the main villain, as well as an early
appearance by Forest Whitaker, but it's otherwise a very
ordinary b-movie. What puts it slightly above most is the
charisma of a youthful Van Damme coupled with some decent
action. JCVD manages to hold the attention of the viewer
better than most newcomers into low budget films, and his
unusual accent, cheesy charm and (dare I say it?) campness,
are somewhat enjoyable to watch when outside the kumite
setting.
In
terms of action, it's no great shakes compared to Hong Kong
movies of the same era, as the choreography is fairly slow and
clearly "Americanised". However, having such a
variety of styles on display was pretty entertaining for its
time, and many of the bouts could be quite brutal.
Overall,
if you're a regular visitor to Dragon's Den, then I assume
you've already seen the film and are reading this review for
its nostalgia value. If, like me, these types of 80's classics
hold a special place in your heart, then I recommend you pick
up the DVD (it's cheap!). However, if you are really looking
for something that has survived the test of time, then you'd
better steer clear!
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