One Percenter (2023): A Knockout Punch for Action Fans
One Percenter throws down the gauntlet to Hollywood's brand of action cinema. This 2023 Japanese film is a love letter to old-school, raw fight choreography and a hilarious takedown of the industry's reliance on CGI and shaky-cam.Toshiro Takuma, played by the legendary Tak Sakaguchi, is an action star yearning for authenticity. Disillusioned by the current state of action films, he sets out to make his dream project: a movie with bone-crunchingly realistic fight scenes inspired by samurai warriors. But achieving this vision requires him to break free from the industry's constraints.
Enter his devoted apprentice, Akira. Together, they escape to a remote island to film their masterpiece. However, their quest for realism takes an unexpected turn when yakuza thugs crash the set. The line between movie and reality blurs as Toshiro is forced to put his fighting skills to the ultimate test.
One Percenter isn't just about the action, though. It's a witty meta-commentary on the action genre. The film winks at fans with references to classic action tropes and even throws some playful shade at other action stars (think Jackie Chan). This self-awareness adds a layer of humor that keeps the film from becoming overly serious.
The real star of the show, however, is the fight choreography. Director Yudai Yamaguchi brings in the talents of Kensuke Sonomura, resulting in some of the most impressive and brutal fight sequences you'll see on screen. The action is balletic, brutal, and beautifully shot, with camerawork that allows you to appreciate every punch and kick.
One Percenter isn't without its flaws. The villains are a bit one-dimensional, and the ending, with its double twist, might feel a tad convoluted. However, these are minor quibbles in a film that delivers pure, unadulterated action movie fun.
If you're a fan of classic action films with a healthy dose of self-awareness, then One Percenter is a must-watch. Just be prepared to have your jaw drop at the fight choreography.
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