GoKawiilI've been unreasonably hyped for the upcoming Street Fighter film since we saw its teaser trailer at the Game Awards. Set to the infectious energy of "Punk Tactics," it gave us a glimpse at a vibrant live0-action rendition of Street Fighter 2, complete with all of favorite characters kicking butt in a variety of ways. The latest trailer makes it clear that this movie is leaning full tilt into the cheesiness of the franchise. Do you want to see a real-life hadouken? How about Chun-Li's thighs of fury fully unleashed? It looks absolutely bonkers in all of the right ways.
I could care less about the plot of this movie — what intrigues me is that director Kitao Sakurai has apparently crafted a work of pure cinematic maximalism that vibes perfectly with the chaotic energy of Street Fighter. It's drenched in colors, sweat and impossible special moves. Crucially, it also looks like Sakurai, a regular Eric Andre collaborator, also has a keen eye for well-staged action. Sure, there's a CGI Blanka played by Jason Momoa. But there's also an extended shot of Chun-Li taking down fools, and even the more fantastical action is framed well. It's just a shame Paramount didn't have the nerve to put Street Fighter up against Mortal Kombat 2. It would have been the perfect summer face-off.