September 12, 2020 (NYC)-“The Kick” is a 2011 family friendly movie that features a family of Taekwondo practitioners that come under attack by a gang of ruthless international thieves. The action thriller was directed by Prachya Pinkaew (Ong Bak, Chocolate). The film’s plot centers around a Taekwondo Master whose son prevents thieves from stealing a treasured Thai artifact. The situation turns critical when the mastermind of the operation kidnaps the young hero’s family, prompting him on a treacherous rescue mission that will test his true abilities.
The film’s title revolves around the son’s failed attempts to master the famed Taekwondo Tornado kick as his father presses him to try out for Thailand’s Olympic Taekwondo team. The mastery of the kick assumes important symbolism in the climax of the film.
The film is light hearted fun. While it has violence, there is no gore, nudity, or vulgarity. The film is subtitled, which may limit appeal to U.S. viewers, but it is now Free on most streaming services, including Amazon Prime and Tubi.
Out of 4 stars I would give the film a review of 2 stars, but I would add a 1/2 a star for Taekwondo enthusiasts because the film does feature many scenes of signature Taekwondo kicking and demonstrations. (2.5/4)
-by Marc Zirogiannis
