Where to watch 3 Ninjas
2 1/2 Stars
Each year, three brothers, Samuel, Jeffrey and Michael Douglas visit their grandfather, Mori Tanaka, for the summer. Mori is highly skilled in ninjutsu, and for years he has trained the boys in his techniques. After an organized crime ring proves to be too much for the F.B.I., it’s time for the three ninja brothers! Using their martial artistry, they team up to battle the crime ring and outwit some very persistent kidnappers!
3 Ninjas is an amalgamation of the era’s most popular family movies, including Home Alone, Ninja Turtles, and Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure. The box-office success of the film was always a bit confounding to me, but the hyper-neon-colored VHS box often caught my eye sitting on the video store shelf, although I never took the risk of renting it, especially when the latest release from PM Entertainment was also available. It’s been over three decades since 3 Ninjas hit theaters in 1992, and I’m finally watching a family film that is intended for middle school kids. Viewing 3 Ninjas is an experience that has left me with conflicting feelings towards the picture.
The film’s credited director, Jon Turteltaub, has produced a well-made light comedy. The three boys in the title roles are enjoyable, not bratty, obnoxious kids; they aren’t breakout stars along the lines of Mackuly Caulkin, but they are able to carry their scenes without it becoming a strain to watch. Victor Wong as the Grandfather is a cherry on top for fans of Asain Cinema. 3 Ninjas borrows from many films, but it was strong enough to launch a franchise that includes three sequels. Ski School alumnus Patrick Labyorteaux is always a welcome sight on screen, and his stoner kidnapper is amusing in content with the film.
Directed by: Jon Turteltaub
Written by: Kenny Kim, Edward Emanuel
Starring: Victor Wong, Michael Treanor, Max Elliott Slade