>*"Very good. But brick not hit back."*

Perhaps the most predictable movie i've seen in my life. Every single match was predictable and it's written in the sky from the beginning of the matches who the final two will be because there's only three players that stand out. Why? I've seen this type of competition structure countless times before in anime especially and they always put some unpredictability into it and everyone is badass so there's no telling who will win. The final match was a culmination of foreshadowing. Maybe I could like this more on a rewatch when I know what to expect because the predictability was frustrating on a first watch.

It doesn't take anything away from the fabulous physical performances of everyone though, the martial art fights and choreography aren't top tier compared to other movies but they're still spectacular. I really liked the origin story with Dux's father and it put a strong foundation for a story and a character built on honor. The funny faces he does sometimes while fighting are priceless. The romance was surface level but it does help to know Dux's character better and the sidekick character was a nice addition. I really hated the villain so nice job. Good use of slow-motion, weird needle drops, ugly set, and very satisfying ending.