Jiu Jitsu

Movie Trailer

Release Date
November 20, 2020

Genre
Action, Sci-Fi, Martial Arts

Cast & Crew

• Alain Moussi as Jake Barnes
• Nicolas Cage as Wylie
• Frank Grillo as Harrigan
• Tony Jaa as Kueng
• Rick Yune as Captain Sand
• JuJu Chan as Carmen
• Marie Avgeropoulos as Myra
• Eddie Steeples as Tex

Director
Dimitri Logothetis

Other Movies Director is Known For

• Kickboxer: Retaliation (2018)
• Wings of the Dragon (2014)

Producer

• Dimitri Logothetis
• Martin Barab

Writer

• Dimitri Logothetis
• Jim McGrath

Budget
Estimated $25 million

Production Company

• Acme Rocket Fuel
• Green Olive Films
• Double Tree Entertainment

Running Time
102 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
R

Content Advisory

• Strong violence
• Martial arts action
• Language
• Some sci-fi themes

Movie Story
“Jiu Jitsu” is a sci-fi martial arts action film that blends hand-to-hand combat with extraterrestrial warfare. The story revolves around Jake Barnes (Alain Moussi), a skilled fighter who finds himself in the middle of an ancient battle that has been waged for centuries. Every six years, a group of highly trained jiu-jitsu fighters must face off against Brax, a fearsome alien warrior who demands combat to maintain the balance of power on Earth.

After suffering from amnesia, Jake is found and nursed back to health by a local fisherman. As his memories slowly return, Jake learns that he is the key to stopping Brax, who has returned to Earth to challenge the fighters. Led by the enigmatic Wylie (Nicolas Cage), Jake and a team of elite warriors, including Kueng (Tony Jaa), Harrigan (Frank Grillo), and Carmen (JuJu Chan), must prepare for a final showdown with the alien invader.

As the group trains and strategizes, they confront not only Brax’s overwhelming strength and advanced technology but also their own fears and insecurities. The film combines elements of martial arts choreography with sci-fi visuals, leading to an epic battle that determines the fate of the planet.

“Jiu Jitsu” mixes martial arts action with a high-concept science fiction plot, aiming to deliver thrilling fight sequences and a unique story that appeals to fans of both genres. Nicolas Cage’s performance as the eccentric and battle-hardened Wylie adds a quirky touch to the film, providing moments of levity amidst the intense action.

Special Effects
The special effects in “Jiu Jitsu” are heavily focused on the sci-fi elements, including Brax’s alien technology and the futuristic combat scenarios. The film employs CGI to create the alien character and his advanced weaponry, as well as to enhance the martial arts sequences with dynamic and visually striking effects. The fight choreography is a highlight, with elaborate, fast-paced action scenes that showcase the skills of the cast.

Box Office Performance
“Jiu Jitsu” was released during the COVID-19 pandemic, primarily through video-on-demand and limited theatrical screenings. The film received mixed to negative reviews, with critics often citing its convoluted plot and underdeveloped characters. However, it found an audience among action movie fans and those who enjoy Nicolas Cage’s unique performances. Despite its high concept, the film did not achieve significant commercial success.

Filming Locations

• Cyprus

Notable Quotes

• “You can either fight this alien or die, Jake.” – Wylie
• “The future of humanity depends on us.” – Harrigan
• “I don’t know who you are, but I’m gonna fight like hell.” – Jake Barnes

Behind-the-Scenes
“Jiu Jitsu” was shot on location in Cyprus, taking advantage of the island’s diverse landscapes to create the film’s exotic and otherworldly setting. The production brought together a cast of well-known martial artists and action stars, including Tony Jaa and Frank Grillo, to ensure the fight scenes were as authentic and exciting as possible. Nicolas Cage’s role as Wylie was one of the film’s most anticipated elements, with the actor bringing his trademark intensity and eccentricity to the character.

Awards
The film did not receive any major awards but was noted within genre-specific circles for its martial arts choreography and its blend of action and sci-fi elements.

Final Verdict
“Jiu Jitsu” is a wild and chaotic mix of martial arts and science fiction that delivers plenty of action but struggles with its storytelling. While the film’s concept of blending jiu-jitsu with an alien invasion is intriguing, the execution may leave some viewers wanting more depth and coherence. However, fans of action-packed, no-holds-barred martial arts movies, and those who enjoy Nicolas Cage’s unpredictable performances, may find “Jiu Jitsu” to be an entertaining, if flawed, experience.

IMDb Rating
2.9/10