It’s winter, and with new variants and the usual array of colds and flu going around, there are lots of good reasons to curl up at home with a good movie. And here’s one from Indonesia you’ve probably never heard of, despite it being hailed as one of the greatest action films ever. THE RAID 2 was actually the film that was intended to be the first RAID. Creators had an idea for an expansive, wide-ranging thriller, but studios only would allow budgeting for a small scaled-down version. With their successful original under their belt, director Gareth Evans and company were soon back with the movie they always wanted to make. It’s not well-known, but has become a cult favorite with an 82% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Google audiences give it a 90% thumbs up. We saw it on an online list of the best rarities to watch on streaming services. Here’s the description of this Jakarta-set crime action shoot ’em up with a twisty plot, top-level fight choreography and some breathtaking action sequences:
After surviving a bloody fight with powerful gangsters, rookie Jakarta cop Rama (Iko Uwais) thinks he can resume a normal life. However, his exploits during that fateful incident have attracted the attention of criminals even more deadly than the last. His family at risk, Rama has no choice but to go under cover. He gets himself thrown in prison, where he befriends the son of a prominent crime kingpin. Rama must lay his own life on the line to finally destroy the criminal empire.
THE RAID 2 is not that hard to find on streaming platforms. Hulu subscribers can watch it free, and Amazon Video, YouTube, Vudu, Google Play Video, and Apple TV all stream it for a few dollars rental.
Still not convinced? How about these shots of its leading man, Iko Uwais, who’s at the center of all the hot fight action. He’s worth a long, longing look…
