Jeff, a young delinquent, is enrolled by his father in a kenpo school, in the hopes of teaching the boy some self-discipline. Years later, Jeff's mentor, Kim, is being threatened by one of the Korean mafia families. Jeff tries to help his old friend, but is too late to prevent Kim's death at the hands of an unknown hitman. Vowing revenge, Jeff takes on all of the families, using his martial arts skills to find the man who killed his friend.
Practical Effects
Jeff Speakman doing his own kenpo stunts — no wires, all sweat
Acting
Mako elevating every scene he touches, as always
Costume
That sleeveless denim jacket should be in a museum
Director
Mark DiSalle
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Jeff Speakman was a real-life kenpo expert who trained under Ed Parker — this was his starring debut after years as a stuntman and instructor.
Mako's casting as mentor Kim continues Hollywood's pattern of Japanese actors playing Korean characters, a frustrating trend he navigated with grace throughout his career.
US
