Triple Threat (2019) – Movie Review

Genre: Action, Thriller
Director: Jesse V. Johnson
Cast: Tony Jaa, Iko Uwais, Tiger Chen, Scott Adkins, Michael Jai White

Plot:
“Triple Threat” follows a mercenary group tasked with assassinating a wealthy businessman’s daughter, but the mission takes a dangerous turn when three elite martial artists—Tony Jaa, Iko Uwais, and Tiger Chen—step in to protect her. The mercenaries, led by an experienced team of hired killers, engage in a brutal battle with the three heroes, resulting in high-octane action and complex martial arts showdowns.

Review:
At its core, “Triple Threat” is a martial arts extravaganza, packed with aggressive fight sequences and adrenaline-pumping action. The film doesn’t shy away from showcasing its main selling point: the dynamic choreography and intense combat between some of the world’s best martial artists.

• Performance and Martial Arts:
  The three leads—Tony Jaa, Iko Uwais, and Tiger Chen—bring their distinct martial arts styles into the film. Tony Jaa’s Muay Thai, Iko Uwais’ Silat, and Tiger Chen’s Wushu provide a refreshing blend of action. Each actor’s performance shines, and the chemistry between them is palpable, especially when they work together to combat overwhelming odds. Their fight choreography is exceptional, with hand-to-hand combat, stunts, and weaponry all seamlessly integrated into the scenes.

• Supporting Cast:
  Scott Adkins and Michael Jai White add to the film’s brutal charm. Adkins is in his element as a mercenary with a cruel and calculated demeanor, while White, known for his fighting prowess, provides the muscle to make the action sequences even more intense. Both bring a sense of danger and menace to their roles, enhancing the stakes of the story.

• Action Sequences:
  The action is the highlight of this movie. The fight scenes are fast, furious, and well-executed, with minimal reliance on CGI. The choreography is sharp and impressive, allowing the actors to perform most of their stunts. The intense combat sequences include everything from hand-to-hand combat to high-speed chases and weapons battles, making it a spectacle for action fans. The movie doesn’t waste time with unnecessary subplots; it moves from one thrilling sequence to the next, ensuring that viewers stay engaged.

• Story and Character Development:
  Unfortunately, the film’s story falls into a predictable formula. The plot focuses on the mission to protect the target, but beyond the basic setup, the narrative doesn’t offer much in terms of twists or depth. The characters, while likable, don’t get much development, which makes it hard to form a deep emotional connection with them. The lack of a strong narrative or complex character arcs may be disappointing for those who prefer a deeper storyline along with their action.

• Direction and Cinematography:
  Jesse V. Johnson, known for his work in the action genre, directs “Triple Threat” with a clear focus on delivering a visually striking, action-driven experience. The cinematography is effective in capturing the energy and intensity of the fights. The pacing is generally solid, but at times, it feels like the film is more concerned with showcasing fight choreography than developing the plot.

Conclusion:
“Triple Threat” is a solid action movie that delivers exactly what it promises: thrilling martial arts combat and non-stop action. While it lacks a strong plot and character depth, it makes up for it with high-quality fight choreography, standout performances from its martial arts stars, and an entertaining run-time. This movie is perfect for fans of the genre looking for pure, unadulterated action.

Rating: 7/10

Recommendation: If you’re a fan of martial arts movies and are in the mood for intense, no-holds-barred action, “Triple Threat” is definitely worth watching. Just don’t expect much in terms of plot or emotional depth.