Lion Killer

Lion Killer isn't what I expected at all. Much better, actually. Beautifully-filmed, well-acted by a good-looking cast, and with a very interesting story about battling inner demons through martial arts. An adult version of The Karate Kid, one might say, although that doesn't do it justice.

Lion Killer is a unique indie film that combines Jiu-Jitsu, drama, and a love story in a way that I haven't seen on screen. I have to admit that I was immediately intrigued by the film's title and the slick poster, so I wanted to check it out and I wasn't disappointed.

The lead characters in Lion Killer, Michael and Noelle, have struggled through some difficult times and have to find a way to heal in order to give their budding relationship a real shot, which makes for a compelling narrative. I've also dabbled a bit in Jiu-Jitsu, so that was of particular interest to me, and it seems apparent that members of the cast are real martial artists, which gave the film a lot of legitimacy in that department that sometimes even big Hollywood films lack. If you're intrigued by this unique combo of martial arts, drama, and love like I was, then check out Lion Killer.

I enjoyed the backgrounds of the main characters and how their stories fit in to the central plot. The familiarity of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class warmups shown in the film along with the choreography of the "rolls" make we want to see more films focused around BJJ culture in the U.S. There were some familiar and unfamiliar aspects of BJJ that I noticed in the film, and I gave 7 stars for the solid characters, acting, overall representation of BJJ, and story. Nice job!

I always love to see martial arts films. Lion Killer is an interesting non-Hollywood take, looking at the personal stories of Michael and Noelle, who are trying to deal with their difficult pasts to rebuild together towards a more hopeful future. It was less glamorized and more focused on real people. The message and story seemed authentic as well as the Jiu-Jitsu, so overall I could appreciate this different genre blend than in a traditional martial arts movie.

Lion Killer tells the story of 2 lost souls trying to find their place in the world after a lifetime of tragedies. The movie has some great cinematography and a good soundtrack. It's a bit reminiscent of Good Will Hunting and Karate Kid. Lion Killer leaves a powerful message with a lot of heart.