The Art of Self-Defense
dir. Riley Stearns · 2019
Feature
Identity Crisis
Mood
Dark / Comedic
Look
muted color palette with stark contrasts, minimalist set design
Structure
linear progression with escalating tension and dark humor
Plot
Casey is attacked at random on the street and enlists in a local dojo led by a charismatic and mysterious Sensei in an effort to learn how to defend himself. What he uncovers is a sinister world of fraternity, violence and hypermasculinity and a woman fighting for her place in it.
Why watch
"The Art of Self-Defense" is a darkly comedic exploration of masculinity that unravels the absurdity of self-defense culture through the lens of a man grappling with his identity. With its sharp satire and unsettling undertones, this film invites viewers to question the very nature of strength and vulnerability.
Cultural context
contemporary discussions on masculinitythe rise of self-defense culturethe absurdity of modern masculinitythe influence of martial arts in popular culture