Kickboxer: Vengeance (2016)
Kickboxer: Vengeance (2016)
Kickboxer: Vengeance (2016) is a modern reboot of the classic 1989 Van Damme martial arts film, reintroducing the legendary story of vengeance, honor, and high-flying kicks to a new generation. Directed by John Stockwell, this version keeps the spirit of the original while adding a slicker, more stylized touch with brutal, bone-crunching action.
The film stars Alain Moussi as Kurt Sloane, a young martial artist who travels to Thailand after his brother Eric is killed in an underground Muay Thai fight against the monstrous fighter Tong Po, played by real-life MMA giant Dave Bautista. Fueled by revenge, Kurt trains under the guidance of Master Durand—played by none other than Jean-Claude Van Damme himself, now stepping into the mentor role he once made iconic.
The movie delivers on fight choreography—hard-hitting, raw, and intense. Moussi brings legit athleticism and martial arts skill, and Bautista is a terrifying presence as Tong Po, more beast than man. Van Damme, with his signature calm coolness and old-school charm, adds nostalgic weight to the film.
While the story is predictable and the acting uneven at times, the energy and dedication to martial arts authenticity shine through. Fans of the original will appreciate the callbacks, training montages, and the old-school revenge plot, while newcomers can enjoy it as a straight-up action flick.
Kickboxer: Vengeance may not break new ground, but it kicks hard and pays respectable homage to its predecessor.
