A Wild, Incoherent Ride: The New Street Fighter Movie Is Both Brilliant and Garbage

The new live-action Street Fighter movie is a fascinating contradiction, existing simultaneously as an incomprehensible parody and a high-energy martial arts comedy. According to a review by Kotaku, the film is essentially two movies in one: a “so bad it’s good” experience and a “so bad it’s bad” project. While the film is undeniably incoherent and suffers from erratic editing, its commitment to chaotic bits and strong performances creates a spectacle that is arguably more than the sum of its parts.

The Ken and Ryu Rivalry

The film primarily centers on the deteriorating relationship between Ken and Ryu, reimagining their history as one of deep-rooted resentment and jealousy. The plot follows the pair as they reunite at the World Warrior tournament, which serves as a cover for M. Bison to siphon Ryu’s powers. While the ensemble cast is massive, many established characters are relegated to bit roles. The fight choreography is noted as a highlight, though the film draws criticism for skipping key bouts, such as an off-screen encounter between Guile and Vega.

Cast and Performances

The cast’s ability to maintain a straight face while delivering rapid-fire, often nonsensical dialogue is a recurring bright spot. Cody Rhodes receives praise as a “scene stealer” in his role as Guile, and Jason Momoa’s performance as Blanka is described by Kotaku as an effective example of an actor fully leaning into a chaotic role. However, the film is heavily criticized for its handling of female characters; specifically, the reviewer notes that the portrayal of Cammy feels like a “character assassination” that abandons her established identity for a different archetype.

Why it matters

For players, this movie represents a departure from traditional, faithful adaptations in favor of a self-aware, ironical take on the franchise. While fans hoping to see every signature move from their favorite characters may be disappointed by the focus on specific narrative threads and off-screen fights, the film offers a unique social experience.

Ultimately, the film functions less like a standard narrative and more like a high-energy conversation among fighting game enthusiasts. While its tone is inconsistent—swinging from dated gags to intense, homoerotic sequences—the review suggests it succeeds as a group-watch experience that leaves audiences picking apart its bizarre choices long after the credits roll.