NEVER BACK DOWN (2008)

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"The Karate Kid of the 21st Century."

In recent years, the MMA world (mixed martial arts) has gained popularity due to the UFC's strong advertising campaign and the power of the internet-it was just a matter of time for someone to make a film about this exciting (and brutal) combat sport. But it's not just about the fighting in Never Back Down (you don't even have to be a fan to enjoy it). What works here is the underdog 80s-like story with plenty of action sequences, dramatic moments and a touch of bravery from our main protagonist (who looks like a rejuvenated version of Tom Cruise). For the most part, it is cheesy and extremely cliché, but we cannot help to like it the way it is. Think of it as The Karate Kid of the 21st Century.

Brief Intro Story:

Jake Tyler (Sean Faris) is an angry and misunderstood young man who just moved to a new house in Florida along with his mother Margot (Leslie Hope) and his little brother Charlie. Jake has been a troubled man since the death of his father and coming to Florida is something that he did not want, but he has to make the best of it-his mother is unsupportive but little Charlie looks up to him. While in High School, Jake meets new friends like nerdy Max (Evan Peters) and an attractive blonde named Baja (Amber Heard) who invites him to a party. He likes her right away and agrees to go.

While in this wild party (with lots of expensive cars, drinks and girls), he discovers an underground MMA organization where young guys (and some girls) fight for money and glory, but this is not his night. Ryan (Cam Gigandet), who is the best fighter around, challenges Jake right on the spot in front of everybody (Jake wanted to leave but he didn't let him). After few insults, the fight begins and it wasn't even close. Jake gets destroyed by Ryan's skills. Jake returns home that night humiliated and betrayed. He knows that he needs to learn how to fight to get even with his new nemesis.

Review:

What we enjoy about Never Back Down is how Director Jeff Wadlow gives us a predictable "underdog" story and makes it interesting once again. Of course, the writers borrow heavily from films like The Karate Kid and even Rocky-down to the mentor-apprentice approach, love interest, and the "80s training and music" moments-but this time around, they introduce the modern era of MMA with all its characteristics and for the most part, it works. Thumbs up for the filmmakers! The fight sequences are realistic and dynamic (as a MMA fan, I noticed here some Kick Boxing and Jiu-jitsu moves that many real fighters apply) and viewed sometimes from the protagonist's vantage point-loosing consciousness is not a pretty picture.

We couldn't ask for a better actor than academy nomine Djimon Hounsou to play the righteous mentor. He is a mesmerizing actor who always gives excellent performances-we can feel passion every time he is onscreen. His relationship with Jake is a bit more distant and business-like than Mr. Miyagi and Daniel in The Karate Kid, but it's strong enough to give us a sense of mutual understanding and brotherhood.

The Verdict:

Never Back Down recycles the 80s underdog formula, but Director Jeff Wadlow makes it all work again by using the new subculture of MMA with good action sequences. Yes it feels staged and far-fetched sometimes, but we cannot deny that the film is very entertaining-especially for the young audience. If you're a fan of MMA or like romantic-underdog stories then don't back down and watch it.

score: 7