Noah Centineo, Andrew Koji’s ‘Street Fighter’: First Reactions
Early audience reactions to Paramount’s new Street Fighter film describe it as a lively, over-the-top adaptation that works best when it embraces the games’ absurdity. The responses are mixed, with praise for its action, visuals and cast alongside criticism that the jokes, dialogue and plot do not always work.
The film is set in 1993, where estranged fighters Ryu, played by Andrew Koji, and Ken Masters, played by Noah Centineo, return to competition after Chun-Li recruits them for the World Warrior Tournament. Kitao Sakurai directed a large ensemble cast that includes Cody Rhodes, Roman Reigns and Jason Momoa; the film opens on 16 October, with critics’ reviews due on 14 October.
- First reactions call Street Fighter chaotic, colourful and fun.
- Viewers praise its cast, action and anime-inspired style.
- Others say the plot and humour fall flat.
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Street Fighter began as a video game series in which martial artists compete in a global tournament. Its best-known characters include Ryu and Ken, who have been rivals and friends across the games.
The film brings the fighters together for the World Warrior Tournament, with Chun-Li recruiting Ryu and Ken. It matters to fans because the series has a long history and a distinctive mix of martial arts, colourful characters and deliberately exaggerated action.