FILMSCOPE: RE:ACTION! SEASON

Dive into the thrilling world of Asian Action Cinema as we explore the legendary history, influence and evolution of stunt performance. This bespoke season is a cinematic celebration featuring iconic filmmakers and stars, from the visionary Akira Kurosawa to the unstoppable Michelle Yeoh!

Prepare for pulse-pounding showdowns in films like Seven Samurai, Sister Street Fighter, Yes, Madam! and Rumble in the Bronx. Each screening showcases groundbreaking stunts and visually stunning storytelling that have redefined the genre.

Experience the films as they were meant to be seen—in their original languages!

Two special screenings will be Accessible and D/deaf-friendly, continuing our tradition of inclusive cinema following on from our ‘SENSOREEL’ screenings of Name Me Lawand and Bruce Lee’s The Way of the Dragon at Kiln Cinema.

In collaboration with cultural institutions and community partners, RE:ACTION! SEASON is more than just a film season—it’s a celebration of action cinema’s enduring legacy and its powerful connection to our diverse communities!

09 October | Sister Street Fighter + Brawler (Short Film) [D/deaf Friendly Screening]

A martial arts classic that spawned several sequels which brought powerful female protagonists to the forefront. Starring Etsuko Shihomi, the film has been praised for its portrayal of a strong female martial artist, a rarity in the genre of Japanese cinema during the 1970’s.

 

16 October | Rumble in the Bronx  + Brothers Swap (Short Film) + Post-Screening Q&A with Mike Fury [D/deaf Friendly Screening]

A significant movie for the career of Jackie Chan as it was his breakthrough film for a broader Western audience. Renowned for performing his own stunts, Chan’s innovative fighting style, charisma and humour hold no bounds in this cult classic!

We’re excited to announce that we will be screening the action comedy short film The Brothers Swap from Director Bruce Chong. The story follows Charlie Lee, a former gangster who is forced to pursue London’s underworld to protect his younger brother, Bryce, from the formidable Phoenix Head. Until things get switched up. Rumble in the Bronx will be followed by a post-film talk and audience Q&A from Life of Action Vol I & II author and action cinema expert, Mike Fury, discussing the influence and career of Jackie Chan. The talk will be BSL Interpreted.

 

23 October | Yes, Madam! + Post-Screening Q&A with Jude Poyer and Mike Fury

An essential piece of cinema that not only showcased the talents of Michelle Yeoh and Cynthia Rothrock but also helped redefine the role of women in action films, making it a ground-breaking entry in the genre. This film paved the way for more action movies starring women, particularly in the Hong Kong film industry.

We’re excited to announce a Post-Film Talk with stunt coordinator and second unit director Jude Poyer (Gangs of London, Farang, Havoc) who will share insights about the film, his background in Hong Kong as a stuntman and collaborating with legends such as late director, Corey Yuen, and international superstar, Jackie Chan. The discussion will be hosted by Life of Action Vol I & II author and action cinema expert Mike Fury! Not to be missed!

 

30 October | Seven Samurai

Celebrated for its innovative cinematography, techniques and dynamic action sequences, Akira Kurosawa’s 1954 film has been vastly inspiring to countless movies and is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made, a cornerstone of global cinema.

 

The season is part of Art of Action, a UK-wide film season supported by National Lottery and BFI Film Audience Network.