No Retreat, No Surrender Blu-ray Review

The AVC encoded image for "No Retreat, No Surrender," presented in a 1.85:1 aspect ratio, marks a notable improvement over previous home video versions, including a VHS-derived DVD. However, the presentation has its flaws. The original source material reveals considerable wear and tear, with noticeable emulsion scratches, persistent speckling, chemical burns, and mild judder throughout. Detail levels are strong in some areas, highlighting textures such as clothing fibers and foodstuffs, but there are also issues of softness in certain scenes. Colors range from bold and vibrant to occasionally hot, with skintones maintaining a natural look.

Despite the inherent limitations of the source material, the Blu-ray transfer brings forth a decent range of visual details and lively hues, particularly in greenery and urban signage. Delineation is generally acceptable, though night sequences tend to expose slight pixelation in frame corners and can show variability in black levels, from inky and well-separated to crushed and flat. It's evident that the film’s low budget and age have left their mark, yet this video presentation stands as a substantial upgrade compared to its predecessors.

The 2.0 DTS-HD MA sound mix for "No Retreat, No Surrender" unfortunately does not match the upgraded visual presentation, presenting a muddier, less vibrant auditory experience. While dialogue exchanges are generally intelligible, they lack the crispness and urgency that could elevate the film's dynamic scenes. The soundtrack selections and scoring do exhibit some power, but the precision is notably lacking, leading to numbed support for the onscreen action and diminished instrumentation. Sound effects register sufficiently to pass, but there is a noticeable bluntness to crowd dynamics that detracts from the overall immersion.

Despite the occasional clear dialogue, this English DTS-HD MA 2.0 mono mix has moments where exchanges sound shrill and overly hot, reminiscent of an overly enthusiastic looping session. The mix does an adequate job of delivering signature action sound effects, such as kicks and punches, but there is a distinct lack of spatial dimension and dynamic leveling. The audio levels can be inconsistent, requiring adjustments when the 80s soundtrack kicks in. Although certainly sourced from the best available elements, this mix is not an easy one to appreciate fully, resulting in an auditory experience that leaves much to be desired.

The Blu-ray release of "No Retreat, No Surrender" offers a robust selection of extras that provide deeper insights and engaging content for fans. Key highlights include an informative audio commentary from screenwriter Keith W. Strandberg, who shares valuable behind-the-scenes stories specific to the U.S. Cut of the film. Additionally, a compelling interview with star Kurt McKinney runs for 17 minutes and 12 seconds in high definition, where he offers fascinating anecdotes about his audition process, the focus on fight scenes during production, and reasons for his absence in the sequel. Also included is an international trailer in standard definition, among several other engaging trailers for martial arts films, making this a comprehensive package for enthusiasts.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: Insightful commentary by screenwriter Keith W. Strandberg.
• Kurt McKinney Interview: Detailed interview with the star discussing various aspects of production.
• International Trailer: The original international trailer of the film.
• 'Avenging Force' Trailer: Additional marketing trailer for related films.
• 'Steele Justice' Trailer: Additional marketing trailer for related films.
• 'Revenge of the Ninja' Trailer: Additional marketing trailer for related films.
• 'Enter The Ninja' Trailer: Additional marketing trailer for related films.
• 'An Eye for an Eye' Trailer: Additional marketing trailer for related films.

In 1986, acclaimed Hong Kong director Corey Yuen sought to penetrate the American action film market with "No Retreat, No Surrender," starring the debutant Kurt McKinney and then largely unknown Jean-Claude Van Damme. The result is a mix of martial arts spectacle and earnest storytelling. Despite its flaws, the film carries an irresistible charm marked by unceasing action sequences choreographed with fervor by Yuen. Van Damme, although in a supporting role, is the undeniable highlight, showcasing his raw physical prowess and signature grimace. The storyline centers on Jason (McKinney), who moves to Seattle following his father's (Timothy D. Baker) clash with a criminal gang led by Ivan (Van Damme). Guided by the spirit of Bruce Lee, Jason learns to channel his anger and develop his fighting skills against local bullies and the returning criminal syndicate.

"No Retreat, No Surrender" unfolds with low-key performances reminiscent of a community theater production, yet Yuen directs with a sincere take on adolescent challenges. The film’s aesthetic merges elements from "The Karate Kid" and "Breakin’ 2: Electric Boogaloo," causing some technical and tonal inconsistencies that border on unintentional parody. Significant highlights include training montages between Jason and the spirit of Bruce Lee, offering sentiment even if marred by cartoonish execution. The film finds its balance in its final act—when Van Damme's Ivan takes center stage, Van Damme’s powerful presence and Yuen’s kinetic fight scenes lift the film above its otherwise silly narrative.

While Jason’s relationships—particularly with neighbor R.J. (J.W. Fails) and love interest Kelly (Kathie Sileno)—lack depth, the closing combat scenes provide a powerful redemption arc within the uneven plot. The extended International Cut, at 98 minutes versus the U.S. cut of 84 minutes, offers additional character moments, although not a complete fix for its narrative shortcomings. Nevertheless, "No Retreat, No Surrender" remains an enjoyable piece of 80s martial arts nostalgia, underscored by iconic fight choreography and Van Damme's breakout performance.

"No Retreat, No Surrender" shines primarily in its fight sequences, a hallmark of low-budget 80s martial arts films. The story, while striving for earnest storytelling, often falls prey to moments of mediocrity and goofy antics. However, these narrative shortcomings are mitigated by the strong action choreography that propels the film forward, particularly in the final act. Jean-Claude Van Damme, in one of his early roles, is compelling as the ruthless Russian fighter. His performance, marked by impressive spinning kicks and intense facial expressions, clearly takes center stage, showcasing his cinematic prowess even amidst the film's less polished aspects.

Kino Lorber's Blu-ray transfer of "No Retreat, No Surrender" is commendable. Although not devoid of flaws, the upgraded visuals provide a marked improvement over previous DVD releases. The inclusion of both cuts of the film and a variety of bonus features cater both to long-time fans and newcomers. The supplemental content adds considerable value, offering deeper insights into the film’s production and its enduring cult status, ensuring that it is an enticing package for collectors.

The thunder is finally called down in the third act, where Van Damme is finally unleashed as a crazed Russian fighter who's not above cheating to achieve desired results in the ring. The tournament conclusion mercifully cuts short storytelling ambition, returning attention to action choreography, which, for a low-budget movie, is quite strong, adding some needed power and speed to the grand finale. "No Retreat, No Surrender" gives itself over to the might of Van Damme, and he's hungry, showing off spinning kicks and pained reactions, trying to make himself the center of attention. It works, as Yuen loses interest in McKinney in the big showdown, clearly more enamored with Van Damme's special cinematic stance and true power. It's disappointing to waste young Van Damme on such goofy antics, but at least Yuen knows to get out of his way, with "No Retreat, No Surrender" genuinely leaving the best for last.