The past two weeks have been film nirvana for me. Every choice I have made, has revealed a gem, and restored my faith in the magic of cinema. Its easy to lose when your drowned in formulaic fare that plays too safe and in so doing, leaves one hungering for the real McCoy.
The Raid is a cinematic kick to the gonads that demands your attention. This is a cinematic action nirvana The plot is simple, a 20 man SWAT team is sent to a 15 Storey tower block ,tasked with arresting the criminal overlord who rules with ruthless efficiency from the security suite located on the buildings top floor. Once the first gun shot is fired, mayhem ensues. Directed by fellow Welshman Gareth Evans this is a master-class in cinematic on-screen fighting. The geography of the brutal fight scenes is a joy to watch unfold, at no time are you confused or lost in the events unfolding. The fights are extreme, wire free and brutal, this is not a balletic martial arts experience, it is cold, ruthless brutality but of the type that has you clinging to the edge of the seat.
The films star and one of the fight choreographers Iko Uwais is a revelation, and along with his colleague Yayan Ruhian they have put Indonesian fight choreography firmly on the map. Yayan also plays the films memorable villain, Mad Dog the Overlords right hand man.
If you love action, martial arts and films that grab you at the throat until the closing titles this is a must see and yes a sequel is on the cards and I for one can't wait.
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