Martial artist Mike Terry lives by a strict code of no competitions, for he feels that such contests weaken fighters. After saving a famous action star from a brutal attack, Mike takes a job in the film industry. He soon finds his personal beliefs and integrity on the line as circumstances force him to participate in a prize fight.
Writing
Mamet's trademark rhythmic dialogue in dojos and backrooms.
Acting
Ejiofor's controlled stillness versus Tim Allen's sleazy desperation.
Practical Effects
Real jiu-jitsu practitioners, zero wirework fakery.
Director
David Mamet
Chiwetel Ejiofor
Mike Terry
Tim Allen
Chet Frank
Alice Braga
Sondra Terry
Jose Pablo Cantillo
Snowflake
Randy Couture
Dylan Flynn
Ricky Jay
Marty Brown
Joe Mantegna
Jerry Weiss
Max Martini
Joe Collins
Emily Mortimer
Laura Black
David Paymer
Richard
Rebecca Pidgeon
Zena Frank
Rodrigo Santoro
Bruno Silva
Jennifer Grey
Lucy Weiss
Vincent Guastaferro
Eddie Bialy
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Mamet trained in Brazilian jiu-jitsu for years and holds a purple belt; this is his love letter to the art.
Ricky Jay's final film appearance—his character Marty Brown embodies every sleazy producer Mamet ever hated.
US
