WHAT WE’RE WATCHING: Street Fighter embraces its old-school roots and mostly lands the knockout

Street Fighter, the latest film from writer-director Kitao Sakurai, channels the essence of Capcom's iconic fighting game series with unabashed zeal. While not without its flaws, the movie delivers a thrilling, high-energy experience that pays homage to its source material in both story and tone. The film draws inspiration from the 1994 anime movie Street Fighter II: The Animated Movie, 2005's Street Fighter Alpha: Generations, and even the 1995 live-action Street Fighter.

Opening with a stunning hand-drawn animated sequence, the film transports us to 1987, where Ryu (voiced by Andrew Koji and played by Koji in live-action) competes in the World Warrior martial arts tournament. To claim victory, Ryu must harness the Dark Hadou, a potent power that terrifies his mentor Gouken (Don Lee) and adoptive brother/fellow student Ken Masters (Noah Centineo). Ryu subsequently vanishes from the world, living a quiet life under an assumed identity.

Flash forward to 1993, and Ken has become a global celebrity, known more for his celebrity endorsements and partying than for his fighting prowess. His friend and manager Dan Hibiki (Andrew Schulz) tries to keep him grounded. The film takes a sharp turn when Chun Li (Callina Liang) arrives, seeking Ken's help as she has received a message from the power-hungry dictator M. Bison (David Dastmalchian).

Bison orchestrates a World Warrior tournament in Metrolao City, inviting the world's best martial artists, including Ken. Bison's true intent, however, is to lure Ryu out of hiding and claim the Dark Hadou to fuel his own Psycho Power.

The film centers on the relationship between Ryu and Ken, with the duo's reunion and rivalry forming the backbone of the narrative. While Koji and Centineo do not receive Oscar-worthy performances, they manage to inject enough emotion and humor into their roles to create a compelling dynamic. Callina Liang's portrayal of Chun-Li, serving as the film's third protagonist, stands out as well-rounded and engaging.

Aside from the lead trio, Sakurai populates the film with numerous beloved characters, blending serious martial arts action with comedic moments for a visually thrilling experience. Some characters, like Bison, receive well-realized depictions, while others, such as Blanka, are rendered in an eccentric, CGI-heavy manner that may not satisfy all viewers. Cammy (Mel Jarson) also appears underutilized, and Guile struggles to deliver humorous lines, partially due to Cody Rhodes's limited comedic range.

Despite some missteps and narrative quirks, Street Fighter's wild, creative approach more than compensates for its shortcomings. Sakurai's love for the franchise shines through in moments of unabashed fan service and a pumping musical score that enhances the action-packed visuals. Although the film occasionally veers into over-the-top territory, it succeeds in delivering a memorable and entertaining cinematic experience.

Much like the characters it revolves around, Street Fighter moves with relentless momentum, setting the stage for a sequel in the near future.