Cast
View AllChong Jun
as Young
Phillip Rhee
as Tony
James Lew
as Chan
Rosanna King
as Lily
Bill Wallace
as Kruger
Ken Nagayama
as Yoshida
Frank Marmolejo
as Frank
Dorin Mukama
as Darren
Mark Hicks
as Mark
Loren Avedon
as Chan's Gang Member
Thomas F. Wilson
as Spike's Gang Member
Brinke Stevens
as Boss' Girlfriend (uncredited)
Peter Malota
as Syndicate Gang (as Peter Lulgjuraj)
Crew
Director
- Richard Park Wu-sang
Writer
- Hong Ji-wun
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Los Angeles Streetfighter distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Richard Park Wu-sang brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1985, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Los Angeles Streetfighter took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 85 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 109 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 2340 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1985, when this film was released:
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Los Angeles Streetfighter shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Mortal Kombat, which focuses more on action than character development, Los Angeles Streetfighter subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Ninja Kids!!! Summer Mission Impossible and Culebra, en el ojete del huracán explore similar territory, Los Angeles Streetfighter stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 23, 1985
- Runtime: 1h 25m
