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Martial Arts Film Sets New Standard for Violence

The Street Fighter's extreme content earned it the first non-sexual X rating in the US.

February 3, 2024 at 12:30 PM

50 Years Ago, a Brutal Martial Arts Thriller Quietly Influenced Quentin Tarantino

The impact of The Street Fighter continues to resonate with filmmakers and gamers alike.

Martial Arts Thriller Transformed Genre and Inspired Creators

The Street Fighter, featuring Sonny Chiba, became a significant film in the martial arts genre after its release in 1974. Its graphic violence earned it the first non-sexual X rating in the US, creating a stir alongside films like The Texas Chain Saw Massacre. In this film, Chiba portrays Takuma Tsurugi, a man battling the yakuza while adhering to his strict moral code. Despite Bruce Lee's iconic status, Chiba's raw and ferocious style differentiated him in an evolving genre. His role laid a foundation for future filmmakers, including Quentin Tarantino, solidifying Chiba's influence in cinema and video games, notably inspiring franchises like Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat.

Key Takeaways

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The Street Fighter earned the first non-sexual X rating in the US for its extreme violence.

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Sonny Chiba's portrayal of Takuma Tsurugi created a unique legacy in martial arts cinema.

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The film significantly influenced Quentin Tarantino and contemporary video games like Mortal Kombat.

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Its impact reflects a notable shift in the portrayal of martial arts characters and violence.

"Chiba's specific charisma and style would set him apart from Lee."

This highlights how Chiba forged a unique identity in martial arts films, distinct from Bruce Lee.

"The Street Fighter isn’t for everyone."

This captures the film's extreme nature, acknowledging its niche appeal despite its influence.

"Its brutality also influenced Mortal Kombat; x-ray shots of crushed skulls have become a mainstay attraction."

This connects the film's legacy to the gaming world, showing its enduring impact.

"The Street Fighter shone through the dark confines of ’70s grindhouse theater, into the annals of pop culture history."

This sentence reflects the film's significant cultural relevance and lasting effect.

The Street Fighter not only epitomizes the violence of its era but also marked a shift in how martial arts could be portrayed on screen. With its unflinching gore, the film captured audiences' attention and set a new bar for brutality in action cinema. This allowed martial arts films to break mainstream boundaries and become integral to pop culture, paving the way for future innovators in film and gaming. Chiba’s legacy continues to inspire, proving that the genre is not just about skill but also the charisma and wildness of its stars.