⭐️⭐️✨ 2.5

With not many appealing options at the cinema this week, I took a chance on Street Fighter for my Friday night film. Heading in with low expectations, I wondered: would I be proved wrong, or would my popcorn be the only highlight of the night?

Video game adaptations are notoriously hit-or-miss, usually leaning toward the latter, and online reviews for this one ranged from poor to average. Aside from Jason Momoa and 50 Cent, I wasn’t familiar with much of the massive ensemble cast. Furthermore, as someone who isn’t overly familiar with the games, I am basing my thoughts purely on the cinematic experience rather than how faithful it is to the source material.

The story itself is basic: lead fighters Ryu (Andrew Koji) and Ken Masters (Noah Centineo) are recruited for a tournament by Chun-Li (Callina Liang). However, the backstory and plot points are elevated by regular anime-style sequences that bring a fun, lively dynamic. It’s very campy and funny in parts, not nearly as bad as it could have been, and surprisingly artistic in its presentation. 50 Cent makes a fun, unexpected appearance as a fighter, though Jason Momoa unfortunately doesn’t get much screen time. The acting is certainly better than expected, and the action sequences are relentless and well-choreographed, packed with impressive stunts and fight scenes.

The film’s soundtrack is particularly worth noting, it’s excellent. A non-stop stream of hits enhances the action, complemented by what appears to be a specially commissioned techno score. In parts, it’s reminiscent of the electronic sounds from Tron: Ares, particularly as the climax builds toward the end.

The finale is entertaining, leading into a stylish animated credit sequence complete with a post-credits scene. It goes without saying that this film won’t appeal to everyone. If you’re looking for a tight, well-written plot, you should probably pass. But if you enjoy non-stop action, martial arts, wrestling, or the original video games, you’ll likely have a good time. The audience in my screening was mainly adults, and most seemed to enjoy it.

Ultimately, I found it much more fun than expected. The acting wasn’t bad, it was genuinely camp/funny, and it kept me entertained throughout. While I am definitely not the primary target audience, fans of the franchise and viewers looking for lightweight action will find plenty to like. I left the cinema satisfied, having enjoyed both the film and the popcorn.

⭐️⭐️✨ 2.5

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Trailer, synopsis and score below.

Set in 1993, the live-action reboot follows estranged martial artists Ryu (Andrew Koji) and Ken Masters (Noah Centineo), whose fractured brotherhood is tested when the relentless investigator Chun-Li (Callina Liang) recruits them for the brutal World Warrior Tournament. As competitors from across the globe gather to fight, Ryu and Ken are forced to face off against each other and the demons of their past while uncovering a sinister conspiracy orchestrating the battle royale—a scheme led by dictator M. Bison (David Dastmalchian) and his Shadaloo syndicate.

Online synopsis 

Film Rating

Music/Sound

5 out of 5

Story/plot

1 out of 5

Acting/Performances

3 out of 5

Overall

2.5 out of 5

Certification: 12A
Running time: 119 minutes
Screening type: 2D