Coarse Humor and Brash Persona: Love or Hate?

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MOVIE REVIEW
Kali Karate: The 2nd Beginning
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Genre: Action, Comedy
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 20m
Director(s): Sean Russel Herman
Writer(s): Sean Russel Herman
Cast: Sean Russel Herman, Noah Centineo, Shu Lan Tuan, Josh Plasse, Laura Seay, George Sear, Raymond Lee, Jake Allyn, Pedro Correa, Mike Tornabene, Peter Cunningham
Where To Watch: on Demand August 8, 2023

RAVING REVIEW: Lights, camera, action! Step into the whirlwind world of Sensai Houston, the star at the center of KALI KARATE: THE 2ND BEGINNING. With a magnetic performance from Sean Russel Herman, this film will take you on a journey that's as peculiar as unpredictable. It may be a delightful dish for some, while others might find it leaves a strange taste. It may not be the flick for everyone, but if quirky martial arts narratives with mockumentaries tickle your fancy, it might be right up your alley.

Let's dive into the narrative arc, shall we? We begin with Sensai Houston, once revered as a martial arts celebrity who has fallen from grace due to scandalous allegations. The tumble from stardom is both tragic and, in a strange way, comical. But the real story starts when Sensai plots a return to the limelight.

The film's storyline flips to Sensai's newfound dream: a Martial Arts talk show. Here, the film takes a creative turn, blending bizarre humor with bold authenticity. These talk show scenes are dynamic and pivotal to the tale's unfolding. If you thought a martial arts expert hosting a talk show was unorthodox, wait till you see the content!

Now, let's talk about the star, Sensai, played by Sean Russel Herman. His performance swings from magnetic to repelling and back again (intentionally.) This see-saw of emotion keeps the film's 80-minute runtime alive and kicking.

KALI KARATE: THE 2ND BEGINNING focuses on more than just the present. It takes you back to the golden days of Sensai's career, filled with dreams that would make any action hero envious. This memory lane excursion sets the foundation for Sensai's never-give-up attitude, a recurring theme in the film. Sensai's relationships with other characters in the movie provide a rich complexity to the story. His exploitation of Shu's abilities and his manipulation of old friends adds a layer of chaos that spices up the tale.

Some elements, like its reliance on coarse humor and Sensai's brash persona, might deter specific viewers. Behind the curtains, the film's backstory adds an intriguing layer to the overall package. The journey of creating this mockumentary over four years, against all odds and personal setbacks (including Sean's homelessness), adds authenticity and makes the entire venture more relatable.

In conclusion, KALI KARATE: THE 2ND BEGINNING is a mixed cinematic offering. The engaging performances and quality production are countered by aspects that limit its broad appeal. It's a film that offered intriguing twists but left me somewhat disconnected. This might be a hit if you are drawn to Sensai Houston's unconventional world. Otherwise, it's a curious experiment in cinema that may or may not strike a chord. Either way, it's an experience that expands the boundaries of conventional film.

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[photo courtesy of CRANKED UP FILMS]

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As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

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