Details
Director: Gareth Evans
Writers: Gareth Evans
Top Cast: Iko Uwais, Joe Taslim, Donny Alamsyah, Yayan Ruhian
Genres: Action, Crime, Thriller
Motion Picture Rating (MPA): R
Release Date: March 23, 2012 (USA)
Runtime: 101 minutes
Summary
The Raid: Redemption is an intense, high-stakes action thriller following Rama (Iko Uwais), a rookie member of an elite Indonesian SWAT team, as they infiltrate a 15-story apartment complex run by a ruthless drug lord named Tama (Ray Sahetapy). With the mission to take down Tama and his operation, Rama and his team face relentless attacks from violent criminals occupying the building. With the exits blocked and limited resources, Rama must rely on his martial arts skills and quick thinking to survive against overwhelming odds.
The film is highly acclaimed for its intense action choreography, particularly the use of the Indonesian martial art Pencak Silat. With jaw-dropping hand-to-hand combat scenes and relentless pacing, The Raid has been praised as one of the best action films of the 21st century. It combines brutal fight sequences with a claustrophobic atmosphere that keeps viewers on edge from start to finish.
Film Rating: ★★★★★
Awards
- Toronto International Film Festival (2011): Midnight Madness Award
- Dublin Film Critics Circle (2012): Best Film and Best Actor (Iko Uwais)
- Jameson Empire Awards (2013): Best Thriller
Film Quotes
- “Pulling a trigger is like ordering takeout.”
- “This is how we do things around here!”
- “Go to hell and tell them I sent you.”
- “Stay out of my way if you want to live.”
- “You fight like a madman, but with purpose.”
Film Review (My Personal Feelings about This Film)
The Raid: Redemption is a powerhouse of action cinema. Director Gareth Evans combines a tight, adrenaline-pumping storyline with breathtaking martial arts choreography, creating an experience that redefines the action genre. Iko Uwais is phenomenal as Rama, bringing both ferocity and vulnerability to his role. Each fight scene feels raw and visceral, amplified by the intense setting of the apartment building, which serves as a character itself, with each floor harboring new dangers.
The cinematography and pacing add to the film’s relentless energy, and the sparse use of dialogue allows the action to speak for itself. Unlike many action films that rely heavily on CGI, The Raid emphasizes authentic, choreographed sequences, making every punch and kick feel visceral and real. It’s an unforgettable thrill ride that keeps you on the edge of your seat and leaves you breathless. If you’re an action fan, The Raid is a must-watch.