Best of the Best (1989) β A Martial Arts Classic
Best of the Best (1989) is a classic sports martial arts drama that goes beyond the typical tournament-style action film. With themes of perseverance, teamwork, personal redemption, and emotional depth, it stands out as one of the most memorable martial arts movies of its era. Directed by Robert Radler and starring Eric Roberts, Phillip Rhee, James Earl Jones, and Chris Penn, the film delivers an engaging mix of action, drama, and heartfelt moments.
Plot Summary
The movie follows the journey of the U.S. national Taekwondo team as they prepare to face the formidable South Korean team in an international competition. The five selected fighters come from different backgrounds and have their own struggles, but they must learn to work together under the strict and disciplined guidance of their coach, Frank Couzo (James Earl Jones).
Main Characters & Their Stories
- Alex Grady (Eric Roberts) β A skilled fighter making a comeback after suffering a career-threatening shoulder injury. Now a single father, he struggles to balance his responsibilities as a parent with his commitment to the team.
- Tommy Lee (Phillip Rhee) β A martial artist with deep emotional wounds. His older brother was killed in a past Taekwondo match by his future opponent, Dae Han, leading to an internal battle between vengeance and sportsmanship.
- Travis Brickley (Chris Penn) β The loudmouth cowboy of the team, cocky and brash but ultimately loyal.
- Virgil Keller (John Dye) β A spiritual martial artist who incorporates meditation and discipline into his fighting style.
- Sonny Grasso (David Agresta) β A determined fighter from a tough background, looking to prove himself.
Under the leadership of Coach Couzo and assistant trainer Catherine Wade (Sally Kirkland), the team undergoes brutal training sessions that push them to their limits both physically and mentally. Internal conflicts, personal demons, and the pressure of representing their country make their journey even tougher.
Key Themes & Emotional Depth
Unlike many other martial arts films that focus solely on action, Best of the Best offers a deeply emotional and personal storyline.
β Brotherhood & Teamwork β The team must overcome their differences and egos to function as a unit. Each fighter brings a unique skill set and personal struggle, making their bond even more crucial.
β Redemption & Perseverance β Alex Grady, after a devastating injury, fights not only for victory but for personal redemption. His journey resonates with anyone who has ever had to overcome obstacles to chase their dreams.
β Forgiveness vs. Revenge β Tommy Leeβs arc is the most emotionally charged. As he faces Dae Han, the man who killed his brother in a past fight, he must decide between vengeance and honor. This internal struggle elevates the film beyond a simple tournament movie.
β Fatherhood & Sacrifice β Alexβs relationship with his young son adds another layer of emotional weight. His struggle to balance family and competition brings a heartfelt dimension to his character.
Action & Martial Arts Sequences
The film showcases intense and well-choreographed Taekwondo fights. The final showdown between the U.S. and South Korean teams is gripping, with each fighter giving their all. The fight between Tommy Lee and Dae Han is particularly notable, delivering both physical intensity and emotional weight.
The training sequences, featuring traditional martial arts discipline and rigorous conditioning, are also highlights of the film. These scenes emphasize not just physical strength but mental and emotional resilience.
The Iconic Ending
The final match is not just about winning or losing. In a surprising and touching moment, Dae Han, despite being the victor, humbly acknowledges Tommy Leeβs strength and honor. He removes his medal and offers it to Tommy, demonstrating that true martial arts spirit is about respect, not just competition. This ending sets Best of the Best apart from other martial arts films, leaving audiences with a powerful message about sportsmanship and honor.
Performance & Direction
- Eric Roberts delivers one of his most memorable performances, bringing both intensity and vulnerability to Alex Grady.
- Phillip Rhee, also a co-writer and producer, shines as Tommy Lee, balancing martial arts skill with emotional depth.
- James Earl Jones brings his commanding presence to the role of Coach Couzo, portraying a tough but ultimately fair leader.
- Chris Penn adds humor and personality to the film, making Travis a memorable character.
Director Robert Radler successfully blends action with drama, ensuring that the film is not just about fight scenes but also about the personal journeys of its characters.
Legacy & Impact
Best of the Best has remained a fan-favorite martial arts film for over three decades. It spawned several sequels, although none captured the same magic as the original. The movieβs combination of high-stakes action and emotional storytelling set it apart from other martial arts films of the late 80s and early 90s.
It continues to be praised for its strong character development, emotional depth, and well-executed fight scenes. Fans of martial arts and sports dramas still consider it one of the best examples of the genre.
Final Verdict
β Strengths: Strong character development, intense fight scenes, emotional storytelling, and a powerful ending.
β Weaknesses: Some predictable sports movie clichΓ©s, but they are executed well.
π₯ Rating: 8/10 β A must-watch for martial arts fans and anyone who loves a great underdog story!
