Customer Reviews

Blood & Bone

5 star:		(37)
4 star:		(9)
3 star:		(3)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This movie is by far one the best martial arts choreographed straight to dvd movies i've ever seen. Michael Jai White if you didn't know is a professional martial artist and in my opinion one of the best "natural" american action stars in the business and believe me he shows all his skills in this movie. (It's about time a directer revealed what Michael is capable of).

Not only does it have a great story line but it mixes action and charisma into such a well balanced storyline that you'll be asking for part two once it's over. Also if you're an MMA fan there are a few appearance by some of your favorite fighters. I gotta admit this movie hit me like one of Michael's round house kicks...straight outta no where, and you too will be very suprised by thinking this is a B movie when really it's a A+ action packed film, better than most in theaters right now.

Also, with work such as this film we need to see more black actors and writers in Hollywood, this movie should have been in theaters, and I believe you'll agree with me once you check it out. So once again, go out and purchase this movie, I guarantee you will not be disappointed.

Leading character Michael Jai White, assuming the role as Isaiah Bone, delivers a stand-alone performance like none other. This film is no doubt one of the best martial arts films in years. It is not the typical fight movie, where the main character goes to various scenes to fight the best fighters and crowned the champion after he defeats the most-feared/best fighter at the end. BLOOD and BONE is much more; it has a story line (that is well written), a purpose, and a promise (that White fulfils at the end).

This kind of film is perfect for White because he is a professional martial artist who holds seven black belts in various disciplines; again, 7 black belts. More important, what he shows in this film is something that should not be missed by anyone with an eye.

White lights up the screen with his awe-inspiring fighting style from start to finish. The first scene (i.e., prison bathroom) of the movie depicts that when he takes out five plus antagonists in quick fashion, leaving them bloodied, mangled, shocked, and confused. As the storyline progresses, White continues his damage in every fight scene. Not only does he destroy his contenders, but he obliterates them and leaves spectators dumbstruck and looking at one another with the "who-what-when-where-how" questions: who is this guy; what is he made of; when did he learn these killer moves; where did he come from; and how in the world did he do that with his hands and feet? In no way is this an exaggeration; viewers who watch this film will perhaps have the same sentiments and ask the same questions and more.

Besides his prowess in martial arts, White's acting should not be overlooked, for he delivers his role flawlessly. He is nefarious when he has to be, kind when he has to be, passionate when he has to be, and cool and subdued when his role calls for it. He excels in every facet and brings character Bone to life.

Some may assume that White is a newcomer, but he is not; rather, he is a veteran in the movie industry and his filmography speaks for itself with more than 30 appearances (e.g., Spawn, 1997; Universal Soldier: The Return, 1999; Trois 2: Pandora's Box, 2002; Undisputed 2: Last Man Standing, 2006; Why Did I Get Married, 2007). He may not be as famous as Denzel Washington or Will Smith, but he represents a great actor. When he is featured in a film (or TV series), he does a noble job and delivers; his lastest role is no different.

In closing, BLOOD and BONE typifies the ultimate example of how a martial arts film should be made, with a passionate storyline and purpose, and not just a fight-only movie that ignores plot and reason. This movie is bursting with action and entertainment, not to mention, it is the real deal. Director Ben Ramsey, writer Michael Andrews, and every soul that participated in completing this film did an amazing job by rendering an A+ film.

However, there is one major flaw with this movie; it has nothing to do with the movie itself but rather the movie's distribution and handling. Surprisingly, this movie is a straight-to-DVD release and will not be shown in theaters. With so many terrible movies being channeled through movie theaters, it is a shame that this movie, which is directed by a black man and stars a black man, will not have that chance. Movie studios need to get their act together, because this film should not have been allocated straight to DVD. If studios can waste time and money releasing trash for public view in theaters, there is no doubt that a studio could have given BLOOD and BONE a proper big-screen presentation.

(This film also features MMA fighters Kimbo Slice, Bob Sapp, and the beautiful Gina Carano; the striking new face of "All My Children," Shannon Kane, makes a brief appearance.)

[Rendered Mon, Sept. 7, 2009]

* * *
[...]

It's nice to see that producers are occasionally taking their time and trying to make a movie that actually appeals to its intended audience. Even though this is direct-to-video it's much more entertaining than most of the crap that gets released theatrically, martial arts or otherwise. Competently directed and acted, with some sweet fights and a story that I can't say is terrific but definitely good, especially for this demographic.

Michael Jai White ("The Dark Knight", "Undisputed 2") tears it up as Bone, an ex-con on a mission to become the king of L.A. street fights... and take care of some personal business along the way. After convincing a small time promoter (Dante Basco, Rufio from "Hook") to get him a money fight, Bone wastes dude after dude, until he has to fight Hammerman, the undefeated monster who fights for the ambitious and philosophical hustler, James (Eamonn Walker, who's fantastic). James may have some serious investment plans for Bone should he win.

I know it doesn't sound original but I loved how the movie has you pulled in for a long time before you understand Bone's motives. I figured as long as he kept kickin' tail, who cares why he's doing it?

The fights credit numerous choreographers but the stunt coordinator is listed as J.J. "Loco" Perry, who mastered Michael Jai White and Scott Adkins in the awesomeness that is "Undisputed 2", one of the best direct-to-video martial arts flicks that I've ever seen. I don't think the fights are quite as good here, but definitely worthy of comparison. In that film White plays a boxer who adopts some MMA techniques, so his leg movements are necessarily limited. This, however, is the first film where White really gets to show off his stuff as a martial artist and it's about time. Some fights are better than others but I doubt anyone will complain. Fast and occasionally quite complex, especially the finale against Matt Mullins. They could've toned down the amount of spin kicks a little but that's my only real gripe. Okay, fine; the editing isn't perfect, but when is it? Still much better than usual.

The DVD is distributed by Sony and has LOTS of trailers and a sweet "behind the scenes" documentary. No other special features except for cast and filmmaker commentary. In English or French with optional subtitles of both languages. If you like martial arts films this definitely should not be missed. Recommended.

2009

The first two reviews read and sound like professional critics who get paid to do this. Who really knows? But I have seen this movie and I`m a regular movie watcher. In short believe EVERYTHING they say. If you want to know what this movie has to offer just read their reviews. They nail it cold. This is a fantastic movie. I was extremely skeptical about this movie at first. As most should be. C'mon I know you thought it too. The cover screams B-movie...LOL. Most B movies are crap that make no sense at all but the fight scenes may be good. I know some of you know what I'm talking about. This movie actually has a story that puts Bone into the fighting positions that MAKE SENSE to us all. You won't ask yourself the silly questions of why is he there, how did he get into this situation or why does he have to fight this guy. Don't lie I know you ask these questions too when watching movies....LOL. And the best thing is that all the martial arts moves are truly legit. No wire work here or unbelievable fight scenes that are completely absurd. I will buy this movie when released. If you like solid martial arts movies with a true story do not hesitate to buy this film. Like the other reviews say. You will not be disappointed.

BLOOD & BONE

I have been waiting for a martial arts film or what most call a "fighting" movie that actually had a real storyline and interesting characters. After all the searching I finally came across this wonderful piece of filmmaking called "Blood & Bone". This movie is very enjoyable with excellent fight scenes, wonderful acting, and a great story behind it all. The great thing is that a review I recently posted I thought the director did not do the greatest job ever [Dragonball Evolution], but he did a great job on this. I may have really got this for Gina Carano who is way to fine and some Mixed Martial Artists this film turned out to be great.

Isaiah Bone [Michael Jai White] is a recently released con who is looking to move on with his life. There is only one thing standing in his way of doing that, a jail house promise he made to a now deceased friend behind the walls. James [Eamonn Walker] is a big time hustler on the streets who basically runs every thing for some higher ups; the thing is he has something that is not his. Bone's friend was set up by James in order for James to steal his girl; he is also the guy who had the guy killed in jail. So the only way that Bone knows how to get close to the guy is to enter the street fights in which James manages the champ on the streets, Hammerman [Bob Sapp]. With the help of Pinball [Dante Basco] Bone makes a name for himself leading to a showdown with the man who killed his friend.

Michael Jai White who is actually a real martial artist and you may remember from a little film called "Spawn" is excellent in this movie. First off his fighting is excellent and is completely realistic even mixing in some jiu-jitsu [love it]. Also and this may surprise some who have not seen him in other things his acting is superb. Eamonn Walker is just as excellent as James the man who had his best friend killed. Julian Sands is great as the man above James; you may remember him from the first two Warlock movies or Stargate SG-1. Dante Basco is very funny in the role of Pinball the man who helps Bone get into the underground fight scene. Nona Gaye is great and gives one of the most realistic performances of the film as the woman who takes Bone in. Michelle Belegrin the sexy wife of James who was stolen away from her real husband is just as good in this film as a junkie.

Of course you know that I was all about this film with all the MMA stars that were involved with big Bob Sapp having the most significant role. Sapp plays the Hammerman in this film who is the undefeated street fighter who works for James. Sapp is great in this and as always looks menacing but is also funny. The super hot Gina Carano is just that and super fine all at the same time, she is regulated to a cameo but she straight beats down this one girl. Kimbo Slice who I am now a huge fan of [I used to hate him in Elite XC] actually shows some acting chops in his brief role in this film. Kimbo's role turns really funny during the credits, you will see. Former WCW wrestler and actual martial artist Ernest "The Cat" Miller gives a nice performance in his fight with MMA star Maurice Smith who also is good in this. There are more real martial artists in this film and every one in this film is good for their parts.

Written by Michael Andrews who like many others involved with this is an actual martial artist did a great job with the story. Director Ben Ramsey who also directed the "Dragonball Evolution" film steps up his game with this one delivering a great flick. The acting in this film is great and very believable and the action is just as believable which is usually a problem in these types of films. There is one scene in particular that is a favorite of mine involving James and crew at a dude's house while a certain song is playing. This is a really entertaining movie and I would highly recommend it to any one.

After seeing this movie, I realize how the movie Spawn did not display the skill of Michael Jai White. He is a great martial artist. He proved this in the movie. Pure skill. A man his size moving like he does is amazing. The story starts off strong and ends the same way. 5 Stars all the way.

Some of the best fighting since Kiss of the Dragon and Crouching Tiger. We found a real life Ryu, hes black, and he's named Michael Jai White.

I hope I don't spoil is but Kimbo Slice is in this movie, Gina Carano (Crush), Rufio, need I go on?

Michael Jai White's solo career has been on a role: couple with Undisputed II - Last Man Standing from three years before and the simultaneously-released Black Dynamite, the release of "Blood and Bone" must have big-name Hollywood studios kicking themselves for not utilizing the man's substantial physical talents for their own benefit. It's another solid notch in a career that seems to be hitting its stride; while I didn't like "Blood and Bone" as much as the aforementioned other two titles, it goes to further demonstrate how White has already surpassed the DTV world's other top stars and is fully deserving to be headlining in Hollywood once more.

The story: a Los Angeles ex-con (White) enters the world of underground street fighting to fulfill his promise to a dead friend - thereby taking on a ruthless and sadistic gangster (Eamonn Walker, Oz).

Top production values are immediately evident and consistent throughout the movie; while it's possible to guess at certain shots that you're watching a DTV film, this one won't alienate Hollywood purists on account of shoddy camerawork or incompetent editing. Director Ben Ramsey (Love and a Bullet) is commendable for really maximizing his resources. It'll depend on your standards if you figure the acting content on-par with the production values, but personally, I remember that this is a low-budget movie and am content with what I get: White is adamantly badass, Eamonn Walker is a thoroughly hateable villain, and Nona Gaye (Ali) and Michelle Belegrin ("Desire") fill their roles solidly. Julian Sands (Leaving Las Vegas) has a satisfyingly tense exchange with Walker at one point, but I think his secondary villain is kind of redundant and unnecessary. Despite being 35, Dante Basco (Hook) still acts like he's a kid and plays his role as White's sidekick with the same loudmouthed enthusiasm he's known for; decide for yourself if your nerves can handle him.

It's safe to say, though, that the movie's fight scenes are what most viewers will be really after. Foremost, I have to point out that even though the movie advertises the presence of legitimate fighters Bob Sapp, Kimbo Slice, Gina Carano, Ernest Miller, and a few others, the vast majority of them are stuck in cameo roles and don't get to show off anything necessarily worthwhile. Sapp is the notable exception, but know that in the face of Michael Jai White, no opponent lasts long or even gets to exert much offense. There are literally only two encounters in which the battle isn't entirely one-sided, and while the predominant one-hit knockouts that Mike bangs out are gloriously athletic, they are but momentary adrenaline rides. The only real standout mano-e-mano match he has is at the end of the movie against up & coming martial artist Matt Mullins, who's done some work prior to this movie (e.g. Adventures of Johnny Tao) but who ought to see his resume expand deservingly now that he has this fight under his belt. On the downside, the awesome Ron Yuan (Ring of Fire) plays an almost completely non-physical role as Walker's right-hand crony. Shame.

This movie is as good a place as any for new fans of White to start and for old fans to get back into the game now that their hero has some decent vehicles to his name. While this isn't the all-out actionfest I had been hoping for, it's a perfectly solid action/drama that you don't have to be a devotee to enjoy. Buy it!

M J W' is at his best on this one. A great follow up to Undisputed 2! Worth the buy, but most definetly it should've been on the big screen for people 2 see a decent plot for a underground fighting arena !

"I am the punishment from God. If you have not sinned greatly then God would not have sent a punishment as great such as me." - Genghis Khan

Blending Asian philosophy, hard-hitting fast-paced fight sequences and urban gangster drama, director Ben Ramsey's "Blood and Bone" is pretty solid as a martial arts actioner. Despite the unoriginal premise and flimsy plot devices, the film stays aloft with the displays of bloody, brutal fights and the skills of one Michael Jai White (Spawn) who just grabs the screen with his charisma. This is his follow-up to the highly entertaining "Undisputed 2" and the man delivers the blows to break the "bone".

Isaiah Bone (Michael Jai White) is an ex-con who after being paroled, goes on to rent a room in a not-so desirable neighborhood. He hooks up with a small-time street fighting promoter named Pinball (Dante Basco), to conquer the Los Angeles underground street fighting circuit who is ruled by a mob boss named James (Eamonn Walker). Bone goes through the competition one by one, each fight is harder than the one before until he calls attention to himself that James recruits him for the biggest underground pay off of them all; James sets him up to fight against the "Consortium's" best fighter. But Bone has a hidden agenda and things aren't the way they seem...

"Blood and Bone" has a plot that is very unoriginal. We've all seen this premise in movies such as "Lion Heart", "Fatal Contact" and "Hard Times" and quite frankly the film offers hardly anything new. An ex-con with a heart of gold who wants to have a shot at redemption and a sleazy selfish gangster who dreams of the real "big time" are formulas that have been overused many times. Some details of the plot require a suspension of disbelief and characterization on the part of its supporting characters are very flimsy but the direction covers up the flaws in the script with the way it overloads the screen with numerous exciting fight sequences.

Director Ben Ramsey portrays the "Bone" character as something out of the pages of a chambara film and spaghetti westerns. The man is an enigma as we really don't know much about him until the second half. He is a fantastic fighter and obviously he is a man on a mission. The plot is a little predictable to those used to these types of films; yet, I found the main character very interesting and thought that the mysteries of his persona to be the film's main strength. We don't really know how he learned to fight like that and he seemed to appear at times when he is needed. Yes, the film leaves a lot of the plot details to the imagination and honestly, some may say that it is lazy storytelling but the direction keeps the pace fairly tight despite the amenities of its plot. The links to Bone and Angela (sexy Michelle Belegrin) is predictable but at least the screenplay doesn't attempt to be pretentious and it only has one goal...to entertain with fight scenes.

Now does the film deliver in the fight scenes? Michael Jai White always knew his stuff and I was very impressed with him in "Undisputed 2"; White doesn't disappoint with this film. For a large man, he is agile and is amazingly quick; and what is more amazing is the fact that he shuns all wire work and does the moves the old-fashioned way, skill. Much of his opponents are your typical street fighters, tough and dirty but most do lack discipline. The last fight with Price (Matt Mullins) was very good and cool in its own way and this was the only time that I felt Bone had the risk of losing. I was a little disappointed that the final fight wasn't as well-choreographed and that the katana sword looked very fake (this is a major sin in action films). Despite the flaw there was no doubt that Bone was going to prevail, this was a good Michael Jai White show.

So what makes an action film stay aloft? It usually depends on how convincing the main actor is in the role and White has the appearance of a highly-skilled fighter. The fights were brutal and bloody (some CGI to enhance the old-fashioned gore effects) that action junkies will not be disappointed. "Blood and Bone" is a low-budget affair but it isn't your usual "direct-to-dvd" popcorn snooze. It plays all its cards right; it doesn't pretend to be anything else and provides solid action entertainment.

Recommended! [3 ½ Stars]