The celebrated director behind shocking horror films like Ichi the Killer and Audition is now tackling the world of mixed martial arts with his new movie, Blazing Fists. Based on the life story of MMA fighter Mikuru Asakura, the film tells the familiar story of two troubled young fighters who team up and battle their way to a better life through the brutal world of combat sports.
Takashi Miike’s Blazing Fists, featuring Danhi Kinoshita, Kaname Yoshizawa, Mariko Shinoda, and Gackt, among others, will be available digitally, on Blu-ray, and DVD starting March 31, 2026, thanks to Well Go USA. You can find the trailer and a summary of the film below.
Takashi Miike, the acclaimed director known for his unique films, brings us the story of Ikuto and Ryoma, two troubled teenagers. They meet in a juvenile detention center and decide to escape their difficult lives by competing in a fighting tournament. Inspired by MMA fighter Mikuru Asakura and his event, Breaking Down, the boys plan to battle their way to freedom. But once they’re released, they realize they must confront the challenges of their past before they can hope to succeed as fighters.
‘Blazing Fists’ Smashes Together Prison Drama, Boxing Movie & Mob Flick
Takashi Miike, the director behind over 100 films, is back with a high-energy boxing drama called Blazing Fists. The film introduces a unique mixed martial arts competition where fighters battle it out in one-minute, one-round matches to prove who’s the best. Based on the life story of MMA star Mikuru Asakura – who also helped produce and appears in the film – Blazing Fists recently premiered at the International Film Festival Rotterdam. The Film Stage described it as a thrilling, gritty blend of prison dramas, boxing movies, and gangster films, complete with intense action.
According to Asian Movie Pulse, the film blends a true story with striking anime and manga visuals, while also paying tribute to 90s and 2000s Japanese cinema, particularly the work of director Takashi Miike. A five-star review on Letterboxd highlighted Miike’s first sports drama as a thoroughly enjoyable experience, filled with both humor and excitement, and specifically praised its memorable action sequences, like a broken arm and a powerful dropkick.
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Though Blazing Fists (a delightfully retro title!) suggests director Takashi Miike is focusing more on characters and exciting MMA action than his usual extreme violence, early looks at the film still promise a compelling sports movie. It appears Miike delivers a strong emotional impact both during the fight scenes and in the characters’ personal lives, offering a fresh take on the familiar underdog story.
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2026-02-04 17:22