Redbelt
Redbelt

Movie spotlight

Redbelt

2008
Movie
99 min
English

Martial artist Mike Terry lives by a strict code of no competitions, for he feels that such contests weaken fighters. After saving a famous action star from a brutal attack, Mike takes a job in the film industry. He soon finds his personal beliefs and integrity on the line as circumstances force him to participate in a prize fight.

Insights

IMDb6.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes66%
Metacritic61/100
Google Users69%
Director: David MametGenres: Action, Crime, Drama, Sport, Thriller

Plot Summary

Mike Terry, a martial arts instructor who lives by a strict code of honor, finds his principles tested when he becomes entangled in a web of deceit involving a dangerous promoter and a manipulative lawyer. As he navigates the treacherous world of professional fighting, Terry must decide how far he is willing to bend his ideals to protect himself and his loved ones from ruin.

Critical Reception

Redbelt received mixed to generally favorable reviews from critics. Many praised David Mamet's distinctive dialogue and the film's unique approach to the martial arts genre, focusing more on character and philosophy than on stylized action. Chiwetel Ejiofor's performance was widely lauded. However, some critics found the plot convoluted or the pacing uneven.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for Mamet's signature dialogue and a compelling performance from Chiwetel Ejiofor.

  • Appreciated for its philosophical undertones and a more grounded take on martial arts storytelling.

  • Criticized by some for a plot that could be difficult to follow or a less-than-satisfying resolution.

Google audience: Audience reviews indicate appreciation for the film's intellectual approach to the genre and Ejiofor's strong lead performance. Some viewers found the plot intricate and occasionally hard to decipher, but the film's distinct style and Mamet's writing generally resonated positively.

Fun Fact

David Mamet wrote the screenplay for Redbelt specifically for Chiwetel Ejiofor, having been impressed by his performance in 'Dirty Pretty Things'.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
tmdb28039023

tmdb28039023

Redbelt may not be, though it’s still pretty good, David Mamet’s best, but it is for the most part an interesting sample of his work in that it showcases some of his most finely honed traits and, more importantly, it is proof that the true ...