Key facts
- The film aims to be "made by fans for fans," with meticulous attention to detail.
- Cast members underwent intense training to replicate characters' signature moves.
- Early reviews have criticized the plot as "confusing" and "chaotic."
- Some reviewers praised the fight choreography and visuals.
- Fan reviewer Tayyib Mahmood found the film true to the games and committed to its characters.
The new Street Fighter movie, directed by Kitao Sakurai, aims to capture the spirit of the beloved arcade game. Starring Noah Centineo as Ken Masters and Andrew Koji as Ryu, the film follows the martial artists as they are recruited by Chun-Li, played by Callina Liang, to compete in the World Warrior tournament organized by crime boss M. Bison. The movie features a large ensemble cast with about 15 characters from various installments of the game series, packed with references and Easter eggs.
Cast members emphasized the film's dedication to authenticity, with Centineo describing it as "a movie made by fans for fans" and Liang detailing her rigorous training to embody Chun-Li's physique and moves. Koji expressed confidence in the film's approach and cast energy.
However, early critical reception has been divided. While The Guardian praised Liang's performance and fight scenes, it called the film a "garish and incoherent mess." IGN noted a "stylish start" that became "disconnected from any sense of reality." Common criticisms targeted the plot as "confusing" and "chaotic," though fight choreography and visuals received some commendation.
Fan reviewer Tayyib Mahmood enjoyed the film, appreciating its commitment to the game's "visual identity" and "ridiculous" nature. He acknowledged story weaknesses but felt the movie embraced its source material and appealed to its target audience, suggesting that universal love is not always necessary for a film's success.