Kickboxer, the 1989 martial arts film directed by Mark DiSalle and David Worth, is an iconic entry into the genre that cemented Jean-Claude Van Damme as a bankable action star. The film’s plot follows Kurt Sloane (Van Damme), a dedicated corner man for his older brother Eric (Dennis Alexio), the American kickboxing champion.
Their world shatters when Eric travels to Thailand and is brutally defeated and paralyzed by the merciless and undefeated champion Tong Po (Michel Qissi). Vowing revenge, a devastated Kurt decides to stay in Thailand and learn the ancient martial art of Muay Thai to face Tong Po on his own terms. He is taken under the wing of the reclusive and quirky master, Xian Chow (Dennis Chan), who trains him in the art of kickboxing, pushing him through a series of grueling and often unconventional training methods.
The film’s strength lies in its classic revenge narrative, which is elevated by its dynamic and well-choreographed fight scenes, particularly the climactic showdown. The training montage is a highlight, blending intense physical sequences with a lighthearted touch.
Van Damme’s performance, while not known for its dramatic depth, showcases his incredible flexibility and acrobatic martial arts style.
Chan as the wise-cracking mentor, Xian, provides a welcome dose of humor and heart.
The film is a pure distillation of the late ’80s action aesthetic—big hair, synth-heavy soundtracks, and over-the-top villains.
Cannon Films released Kickboxer.
Jean-Claude Van Damme in Kickboxer (Photo/Cannon Films)
Kickboxer was followed by sequels Kickboxer 2: The Road Back, Kickboxer 3: The Art of War, and Kickboxer 4: The Agressor. The films starred Sasha Michell as the third brother David Sloane.
Redemption: Kickboxer 5 starring Mark Dacascos and James Ryan had new characters and little connection to the rest of the series.
Kickboxer was remade as Kickboxer: Vengeance starring Dave Bautista, Alain Moussi, Gina Carano, Georges St-Pierre and Van Damme returns to the series as Master Durand. The film was released in select theaters and on VOD on September 2, 2016. It was followed by sequel titled Kickboxer: Retaliation, the final film in the franchise.
Reception for Kickboxer
Kickboxer grossed $4.1 million on its opening weekend, finishing third behind Uncle Buck ($4.6 million) and Parenthood ($4.4 million).
The film would gross $50 million worldwide.
Legacy
While Kickboxer may not be considered a critical masterpiece, its legacy is undeniable. It is a quintessential martial arts film that influenced a generation of action cinema. It is remembered for its signature training montages, iconic final fight, and Van Damme’s physical presence.
The film’s simple yet effective storyline about a man seeking justice for his family’s honor has resonated with audiences for decades, spawning several sequels and a 2016 remake. It stands as a cult classic, celebrated for its earnestness and a key example of the cinematic formula that made stars out of martial artists in the 1980s and 90s.
