Phillip Rhee is a man of many talents. I've watched all his Movies since I was a Kid. Every Movie has a positive story & message, Underdog Kids is no exception. This Movie delivers the true meaning of Martial Arts, self-discipline, courage, friendship, love, respect and honor. Important parts to Martial Arts & Life that I see disappearing, over run with brutality & violence to make money or have a Gold Belt. This Movie shows that there is more value to life. It's a heart warming story, with many challenges young kids face on a daily basis & show's how these particular characters overcome the obstacles. It's an inspiring independent Movie to watch, that I think all ages would like, although its aimed toward a Family orientated genre. It doesn't have all the glitz and glamor you'd get from a blockbuster Movie with massive funding. It somewhat lacks post production and fancy editing, however the story surpasses that. For me thats what a good movie is all about. So go in with an open mind, sit back with some popcorn & enjoy Underdog Kids.
... View MoreThe martial arts choreography and stunts were good (and that's pretty much it). The story, the script and the characters felt so sub-par that it ruined the movie for me. It was so badly written, awkward, poor acting including the main actor, the martial arts master Phillip Rhee who both wrote and directed this movie, apparently not having any producers, co-producers etc. helping him with everything that is wrong with this movie. But as I said, if you can wade through what is almost a parody that might be called "Mighty Karate Ducks" you will see some really nice choreography and stunts. It's clear Phillip Rhee had a casting that focused on martial arts skill and not acting. His acting was weak too. Not worth the rent. If you have a serious craving for some martial arts and you've seen everything that is out there then you can at least check this one out an skip the nonsense between the martial arts sequences.
... View MoreSince hearing the announcement that Phillip Rhee would be returning with a new film, his first in 17 years, had me excited. Even more, the fact that martial arts legends Richard Norton, Don "The Dragon" Wilson, Danny Inosanto, Benny "The Jet" Urquidez, and Jun Chong were making cameos had me excited more. Rhee did a terrific job in not only giving a message about martial arts, but like the original Best of the Best, the film truly has heart.What's really great is that in my opinion, this film could be a stepping stone for a new generation of future action stars. Seeing martial arts champions Rayna Valladingham, Aidan Considine, Tyler Weaver, Andrew Franklin transition to film as well as Supah Ninjas' Ryan Potter and Sean Rhee (Phillip's son), this is truly a fun film to enjoy.If there is a film that martial arts film fans would want to break their kids with in watching the genre, this is truly one of those films to introduce them. A fun film with heart and some exciting martial arts action with a dose of family comedy.
... View MoreI watched this movie because I am a big fan of the Phillips Rhee's Best of the Best series. As an adult I still managed to enjoy the movie even though it was aimed for kids, however its best to watch it with you kids or nephews.For the criticism this movie is getting with regards to acting, and camera editing, we should keep in mind that Rhee directed, wrote, and produced it so the budget isn't high. His movies have always served to deliver a good message to martial arts learners, and that's what he does here. Kids can learn a lot of lessons from this which they wont find in any of the karate kids for example, and that's what this movie is all about. For those expecting a triple A movie don't watch this or you'l be missing the point.The only complaint I have was that the movie felt too rushed and I agree with the review saying perhaps they tried to fit in too much into 1 hour and a half. there wasn't enough time for the characters to develop.Its very good to see Phillip Rhee, a master martial artist, acting again and hopefully he continues making more movies. 30 years after Best of the Best, his new movie is still pushing forward positive messages and showing how passionate he is about delivering his message. We need more from this man and less from the mindless violence of Hollywood action star clones.
... View More