Review of Warrior (2011) by Cyph0N — 22 Dec 2011

This movie is about two brothers and their inner and outer conflicts with each other and with the world around them. What makes this film special though is where and how they resolve their conflicts: a fight in a MMA tournament.

The build-up to that final moment is almost perfect: seamless, calm, yet not too boring all the same. Back stories and history of the two and what role their father plays is brought in gradually and in an interesting manner.

Yes, the first part of the film may be quite long, and may be boring in the minds of people who adore action, but once the film enters the second part, pure adrenaline-pumping suspense kicks its way onto the big screen. I've watched tons of movies, from nearly all genres, but never have I watched a film that captures true and gritty combat in such a realistic way. The fight choreography is superb. Add to that the fact that the fight scenes are captured using a wobbly camera, making the fights all the more realistic. Many may dislike this realistic touch, but I loved it, because it helps you to integrate your mindset with that of the characters, that is, it aids in reflecting the emotions and desires of the two characters. During some moments, I sincerely felt like I was the one taking hits. The camera angles, the shakiness, and the excellent fight choreography make this film a masterpiece in the realistic aspect of it all.

To top it all off, the two brothers are both "heroes", but it ultimately depends on personal preference when it comes to differentiating good from bad.

The best film of 2011? No, I don't believe it is, but Warrior surely deserves to be among the top 5 films of 2011. Watch it. Now.