Where to watch Shootfighter II
3 Stars
Shingo and the boys (Nick and Ruben) are blackmailed into helping Rawlins infiltrate an underground shootfighting ring in Miami
Shootfighrer II is a rare, especially for B-movies, sequel that is superior to the original. The quality and bigness of the sequel are evident in almost every category. Paul Ziller finds a very capable cast of supporting actors to back up the returning lead stars. The polished “look” of this entry and apparent higher budget—it appears there was a hair stylist on-set for this one—give the movie a sheen that the original sorely lacked. The movie is a series of action scenes that are equal parts absurd and entertaining.
I don’t mean absurd in the sense of a Jackie Chan stunt-filled romp; Shootfighter II is a “tournament fight flick,” but the filmmakers have gone to comical lengths in order to supply the audience with unique fighters. One of the more eccentric contenders fights with a tabla strapped to his torso. Another scene showcases a raging competitor who chomps on raw red meat and snarls like a wild beast. All of the attempts to raise the stakes in the sub-genre, spawned by Enter the Dragon and perfected with Bloodsport, are creative and appreciated, if only for their comedic shock value.
This one is worth a watch for those who kind of liked Shootfighter but thought it could have been better. Or if you are just curious to see how a match between a carnivorous fighter and someone playing a drum plays out, I find myself falling into both categories.
Directed by: Paul Ziller
Written by: Greg Mellott, Peter Shaner
Starring: Bolo Yeung, William Zabka, Michael Bernardo