Synopsis:

An origin story of Chun Li (Kreuk), as she embarks on a quest of justice for her father’s killer. Based on the video game series by Capcom.

Our Thoughts:

Kristin Kreuk of “Smallville” gives the big screen a try in yet another film based on a video game, this one titled Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun Li - but don’t dismiss it just because of that.

While video game movies are getting a bad rap these days (thanks in large part to director Uwe Boll, who’s brought us the stinkers House Of The Dead (2003) and BloodRayne (2006), among others), there have been a few decent adaptations. Resident Evil (2002), of course, comes immediately to mind, but Mortal Kombat and Silent Hill weren’t half bad either.

Unfortunately, this movie has a couple of hurdles to pass if it’s going to generate any box office. First, it has to get past viewer’s memories of the Van Damme starrer Street Fighter (that can be done - just look at the success of The Incredible Hulk (2008)). Secondly, it has to avoid the obvious references to Elektra at all costs.

This one could be tougher, because the two films have a lot in common. Both star popular TV actresses trying to make it big in an action flick on screen. Both are based on secondary characters of a much popular male figure. And both are make or break at the box office.

Just like there were plans to make Elektra into just one of many DareDevil (2003) spin-offs (alas, a preview story of Colin Ferrell’s Bullseye would have been something worth seeing), so too is there already talk from the filmmakers of bringing the rest of the characters in the Street Fighter games to the big screen in their own separate films.

Thankfully, Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun Li is bringing more to the table than just Kristin. Backing her up acting-wise are familiar names like Michael Clarke Duncan, Neal McDonough and Chris Klein. On top of that, the film has accomplished action director Andrzej Bartkowiak (Romeo Must Die (2000), Cradle 2 The Grave (2003), etc.) backing her up off-camera.

Let’s just hope Andrzej, Michael, Neal and Chris will be able to help Kristin’s feature film breakout go a little smoother than it did for Garner. Otherwise, just like Garner, all we’ll be able to look forward to in Kristin’s future is silly romantic comedies.

 

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