Action vet Scott Adkins (The Rip) is making his directorial debut with action-thriller Brawler, which he also stars in alongside Lewis Tan (Mortal Kombat).
Currently shooting in the UK, Capture is launching sales on the movie ahead of the Cannes market. Above is a first look.
In Brawler, “a disgraced MMA champion is pulled into a violent underworld by the sins of his past, armed only with his fists, he must fight hitmen, criminal gangs, and his own inner demons, to protect those he loves.”
The film also stars Larry Lamb (The Hatton Garden Job) and Emily Bennett and is written by Matt Venne (Dexter: Resurrection).
A titan of martial arts action cinema has left us. A master of martial arts, a lovely man, and a devoted humanitarian. Our paths crossed briefly, but his kindness left a lasting impact. He embodied the true spirit of martial arts. My heart goes out to his loved ones. You inspired a generation. Rest In Peace Chuck.
Ninja Duology | Behind-The-Scenes
Here’s looking at how Scott Adkins’ Ninja duology (2009’s Ninja and 2013’s Ninja: Shadow of a Tear) transformed a direct-to-video property into a modern cult martial-arts staple.
The first film, directed by Isaac Florentine, gave Adkins one of his first lead roles as Casey Bowman; and the sequel reunited Florentine and Adkins for darker, tighter revenge choreography shot in Thailand.
Casting: Adkins was chosen for his established martial arts résumé and prior supporting work.
Adkins’ preparation blends formal martial arts (taekwondo, kickboxing, gymnastics) with functional strength and conditioning — frequent pad work, plyometrics, flexibility/yoga and targeted conditioning so he can perform extended, full-contact choreography without reliance on stunt doubles. Interviews and fitness profiles stress his “stay ready” philosophy: consistent cross-training, technical drills, and scene-specific conditioning to meet six-day shooting weeks and back-to-back fight sequences.
The sequel’s team specifically avoided wirework and leaned on fight coordinator Tim Man’s full-contact staging, increasing the physical demands on lead performers.
Reviewers praised choreography and Adkins’ athleticism. Over time, the sequel in particular picked up enthusiastic fan response at Fantastic Fest and among genre outlets for its practical stunts and clear, physical storytelling.. the kind of reception that breeds cult status.
Source: Wiki & IGN
Would you like to see Scott Adkin’s back as a Ninja?
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There was an era when action stars were BUILT different.
Arnold Schwarzenegger @schwarzenegger
Sylvester Stallone @officialslystallone
Jean-Claude Van Damme @jcvd
Bruce Lee @brucelee
Their physicality WAS the spectacle.
Then the industry shifted.
More wire work.
More CGI. AI (@bradpittofflcial & @tomcruise fight)
Less raw ability carrying the scene.
Scott Adkins @thescottadkins breaks down what changed — and why it matters.
Did action evolve… or did we lose something real?
👇 Sound off.
#ArnoldSchwarzenegger #SylvesterStallone #JeanClaudeVanDamme #ScottAdkins #ActionMovies
