Not to be confused with the 1999 action movie Dead or Alive: Hanzaisha, this video game adaptation begins in the Ishikari Mountains of Japan where Princess Kasumi anguishes over her missing brother. Kasumi, played by Devon Aoki (Sin City, 2 Fast 2 Furious) eventually becomes a rogue shinobi (maybe they could adapt that video game) to search for her brother, played by Collin Chou (Matrix Reloaded). The princess’s bodyguard Ryu Hayabusa, played by Kane Kosugi (War), tags along to connect the several characters together. Natassia Malthe (Eletkra and the upcoming BloodRayne sequel… yes, a sequel) plays the mysterious Ayane.
Jamie Pressly (My Name is Earl television series) does the best job fighting as Tina Armstrong. After this viewing, you’ll know why Jamie Pressly always stays so “buff” and tan on her television show. Tina’s backed up by her father, Bass, played by “Diesel” wrestler Kevin Nash (The Punisher, The Longest Yard). Tina must also contend with lead pirate robber Robin Shou (Mortal Kombat - it’s a small role but Shou will direct and star with fellow waning action star Ray Park in the upcoming Dead Mule Suitcase). Another fighter named Zack is played by dancer/former football player Brian J. White (Stomp the Yard and In the Name of the King: A Dungeon Siege Tale). Rising British acting star/singer Matthew Marsden (the upcoming John Rambo, Resident Evil: Extinction) plays Max while big guy Silvio Simac plays Leon. Singer/actress Holly Valance rounds out the cast as the blond Aussie thief Christie.
Once the invitees arrive, Canadian Sarah Carter (Shark television series) plays hostess Helena Douglas. Texan Steve Howey (Reba television series) plays the event technician Weatherby. Eric Roberts (Best of the Best) plays Donovan, host of the DOA tournament. None of the characters are deep. The screenplay and story by screenwriter J.F. Lawton (Pretty Woman) doesn’t address much character development beyond their fighting abilities. Screenwriters Seth and Adam Gross (Bill Nye the Science Guy) also contribute to the screenplay. Nothing deep in dialogue like “I guess I’m going to the ball after all”. Just fights set to rock music and some credible directing from a master director.
Article comments
1 - Chris Beaumont
Ad umb as it sounds, the movie's title is actually DOA: Dead or Alive.