The Raid: Redemption

If you like just straight up raw martial arts action and brutality, than this is the film for you.  It's a shame that it didn't get mainstream release in the states, but not surprising as many a great martial arts films haven't.  I managed to see this earlier in the year at an art theater.  What's it about?  A SWAT team is charged with apprehending a criminal network embedded in a large, criminal infested apartment complex in Jakarta, Indonesia.  In the last few years, from little the little known countries like Thailand, Indonesia, Burma, etc. have been really rejuvenating the whole martial arts genre showcasing their native arts. The fight choreography and camera work here are incredible.  The sheer no no nonsense style of the fighting here is quite different than the similar, but more stylized fighting of Tony Jaa's films.   Here, we get to see the art of pencak silat on display, as displayed by lead actor Iko Uwais.  By the way, look for this talented guy to star alongside Keanu Reeves in Reeves' directorial debut - Man Of Tai Chi.  The visceral action packed pace throughout the film doesn't let up for a moment.  By the time it's over, you feel like you've been through an adrenaline soaked battle yourself.