Long before streaming services delivered cinematic epics to our couches, one particular "best of the best movie" punched its way into the hearts of a generation, teaching us about brotherhood, resilience, and the true meaning of a team. We're talking, of course, about the 1989 martial arts drama Best of the Best, a film that, decades later, still resonates with its powerful message of overcoming individual rivalries for a collective goal.
If you've never experienced the raw emotional power and high-flying kicks of this cult classic, or if it's been a while since your last viewing, prepare for a deep dive into what makes this story of an underdog American Tae Kwon Do team so enduring. It's more than just a fight movie; it's a testament to the human spirit.
At a Glance: Why Best of the Best Deserves Your Attention
- What it is: A 1989 martial arts drama centered on an American Tae Kwon Do team competing against Korea.
- Key Themes: Teamwork, personal rivalry, redemption, overcoming trauma, national pride, martial arts discipline.
- Who's in it: Stars Eric Roberts, Phillip Rhee, James Earl Jones, Sally Kirkland.
- Director: Robert Radler.
- Runtime: A concise 1 hour 37 minutes, rated PG-13.
- Why it's special: A beloved cult classic that transcends typical sports drama tropes, offering genuine emotional depth and impressive fight choreography.
- Critical Buzz: Holds a user score of 65/100 on TMDb from over 300 users, testament to its strong fan following.
- Where to Watch: Read on for full streaming, rental, and purchase details!
Beyond the Tournament: Why Best of the Best Still Connects
At its core, Best of the Best is a classic underdog story, but it's executed with a depth and sincerity that lifts it far above many of its contemporaries. The premise is straightforward: five diverse American martial artists are chosen to represent their country in a high-stakes Tae Kwon Do tournament against the formidable Korean national team. But the real battle isn't just in the ring; it's within themselves and amongst each other.
You see, these aren't just anonymous fighters. They're individuals carrying heavy burdens and deep-seated resentments. There's Travis Brickley (played by a charismatic Eric Roberts), a hot-headed, loud-mouthed brawler who masks his vulnerabilities with bravado. Then there's Alex Grady (Phillip Rhee, also the film's martial arts coordinator), a retired fighter forced back into the game by circumstances, grappling with a past injury and the responsibility of his young son. Tommy Lee (Rhee again), a calm and disciplined martial artist, carries the profound grief of losing his brother to a Korean fighter, making the tournament intensely personal. Rounding out the team are Virgil Keller (John Dye), a quiet, religious family man wrestling with inner demons, and Sonny Grasso (Simon Rhee, Phillip's real-life brother), a fighter whose loyalty and spirit will be tested.
This isn't just about throwing punches and kicks. It's about how these five vastly different men, initially at odds, learn to trust, support, and ultimately, fight for one another. Their journey from scattered individuals to a cohesive unit is the true triumph of the film.
More Than Just Fights: The Heart of the Story
What sets Best of the Best apart is its commitment to character development and emotional resonance. Director Robert Radler understood that audiences needed to care about these men before they cared about the outcome of the fights. The film delves into:
- Personal Demons: Each character faces internal struggles – Travis's anger issues, Alex's self-doubt, Tommy's unresolved grief. These personal battles are often tougher than any opponent in the ring.
- The Weight of Expectation: Representing your country carries immense pressure, and the film effectively portrays the psychological toll it takes on the team.
- Mentorship and Tough Love: James Earl Jones delivers a powerful performance as Frank Couzo, the team's gruff but wise coach, pushing them physically and mentally. Sally Kirkland as Catherine Wade, the team's empathetic trainer, provides the much-needed emotional balance. Their dynamic is key to shaping the team's transformation.
- The Spirit of Martial Arts: Beyond just fighting techniques, the movie emphasizes the discipline, respect, and philosophical aspects of Tae Kwon Do, especially through Tommy Lee's character. It’s about balance, inner peace, and using strength responsibly.
The internal conflicts and eventual bonding of the team echo a sentiment beautifully captured in a memorable line from the film: "A team is not a team if you don't give a damn about each other." This quote encapsulates the very essence of Best of the Best, making it more than just an action flick; it's a poignant drama about human connection.
Meet the Contenders: A Look at the Cast That Made It Shine
The success of Best of the Best hinges on its cast, a blend of established actors and genuine martial arts practitioners who brought authenticity and heart to their roles.
Eric Roberts' Gritty Performance
Eric Roberts, known for his intense and often volatile roles, brings a surprising amount of charm and vulnerability to Travis Brickley. His character acts as both the comic relief and a crucial catalyst for the team's internal friction. Beneath the swagger, Roberts perfectly portrays a man desperate for acceptance and a place to belong. His eventual transformation from lone wolf to loyal teammate is one of the most satisfying arcs in the film.
Phillip Rhee's Authentic Martial Arts
As Alex Grady, Phillip Rhee brings a grounded, relatable quality to the protagonist. More significantly, Rhee's genuine martial arts background (he's a 7th-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do) ensures that every kick, punch, and block seen on screen is executed with precision and power. Rhee wasn't just an actor; he was also the film's martial arts coordinator, shaping the fight sequences to be both visually spectacular and technically accurate. This commitment to authenticity elevates the action significantly.
James Earl Jones' Commanding Presence
Even in a supporting role, James Earl Jones elevates any film he's in. As Coach Frank Couzo, he provides the gravitas and moral center the team desperately needs. His booming voice and stern demeanor command respect, yet he subtly conveys a deep care for his fighters. His monologues are stirring, pushing the team to confront their weaknesses and understand the true meaning of honor and teamwork. He's the father figure who challenges them to be more than just fighters.
The Ensemble's Chemistry
The rest of the cast, including John Dye as the contemplative Virgil, Simon Rhee as the loyal Sonny, and Sally Kirkland as the compassionate Catherine, contribute significantly to the film's rich tapestry. The interactions between these characters – the sparring, the arguments, the shared vulnerabilities – forge a believable bond that makes their eventual teamwork feel earned and incredibly moving. You genuinely root for each of them to find their strength and overcome their individual hurdles.
The Enduring Appeal: What Makes This Underdog Story Timeless?
Three decades later, Best of the Best hasn't faded into obscurity. Instead, it maintains a passionate following, regularly topping lists of beloved 80s action and sports dramas. Why does this particular film continue to capture imaginations?
The Power of the Underdog Narrative
Humans are hardwired to root for the underdog. Best of the Best leans into this perfectly. The American team, cobbled together from different backgrounds and riddled with internal strife, faces a seemingly unbeatable opponent in the highly disciplined and unified Korean team. The odds are stacked against them, creating immense tension and making their struggle all the more compelling. Their journey isn't just about winning a medal; it's about proving their worth, both to themselves and to each other. This universal narrative transcends time and culture.
Martial Arts Authenticity and Spectacle
For fans of martial arts, the film is a feast. Phillip Rhee's expertise ensures that the Tae Kwon Do presented is not only believable but also exhilarating. The fight choreography is crisp, fast-paced, and showcases a wide array of techniques without resorting to over-the-top, unbelievable stunts. This commitment to genuine martial arts distinguishes it from many other action films of the era that prioritized flash over substance. It's a true celebration of the sport.
Lessons in Leadership and Self-Belief
Beyond the physical prowess, Best of the Best is a masterclass in leadership and personal growth. Coach Couzo's methods, though unconventional, teach the team about mental fortitude, strategic thinking, and the importance of self-sacrifice. Each character, through their individual arcs, learns to shed their doubts and embrace their inner strength. It's a powerful reminder that true victory often begins with believing in yourself and your team.
"A Team is Not a Team...": The Movie's Core Message
The film's most quoted line, "A team is not a team if you don't give a damn about each other," isn't just catchy; it's the thematic anchor. It underscores the idea that skill alone isn't enough. Genuine care, empathy, and a willingness to put your teammates before yourself are what forge an unbreakable unit. This message about brotherhood and collective strength is universally appealing and remains incredibly relevant in any context, from sports to business to personal relationships. It's a core reason why best of the best reviews often highlight its emotional impact.
From 1989 to Today: How to Watch Best of the Best Now
Good news for fans old and new: Best of the Best remains widely accessible, proving its enduring popularity. You don't need a time machine to revisit this gem.
Streaming Options: Free and Subscription
For those looking to stream without breaking the bank, The Roku Channel currently offers Best of the Best for free with ads. It's a fantastic option if you want to jump right in and enjoy the nostalgia.
If you prefer ad-free viewing or have other streaming subscriptions, you'll also find it available for rent or purchase on several major platforms.
Rent or Own Digitally
For maximum flexibility, Best of the Best can be rented or purchased digitally across a variety of services. This means you can add it to your permanent digital library or just enjoy a one-time viewing. Look for it on:
- Amazon Video
- Apple TV
- Fandango At Home (Vudu)
- YouTube
- Google Play Movies
- Prime Video
These platforms give you the convenience of watching it on nearly any device, whenever you like. So, if you're eager to watch Best of the Best Full Movie right now, you have plenty of options at your fingertips.
Physical Media: The Enduring Charm of DVD/Blu-ray
For collectors and those who prefer physical media, Best of the Best is also available on DVD. You can find it at retailers like Barnes & Noble, ensuring you can own a copy to watch anytime, without relying on internet access or streaming subscriptions. While a Blu-ray release might be harder to find, the DVD offers a perfectly good way to experience this classic.
Critical Reception and Fan Love: Diving Into "Best of the Best" Reviews
Upon its initial release on November 10th, 1989, Best of the Best wasn't a runaway blockbuster or a critical darling, often flying under the radar compared to other martial arts films like Kickboxer or Bloodsport. However, its honest portrayal of human struggle and genuine emotional core resonated deeply with audiences, earning it a devoted cult following that has only grown stronger over the years.
A Cult Classic, Not a Blockbuster
The film’s PG-13 rating meant it could appeal to a broader audience than some of its more R-rated counterparts, allowing its themes of teamwork and overcoming adversity to reach a wider demographic. While it didn't break box office records, its consistent rental numbers and subsequent TV airings cemented its place as a go-to for many martial arts and sports drama enthusiasts. It’s the kind of movie you stumble upon and then never forget.
The TMDb Score: What 316 Users Said
On TMDb, Best of the Best holds a user score of 65/100, aggregated from 316 top users. This solid score reflects a generally positive sentiment among its viewers. It indicates that while it may not be considered a cinematic masterpiece by all critics, it's certainly well-regarded by its audience. This kind of user score often points to a film that delivers exactly what it promises, connecting with its viewers on an emotional level. Many best of the best reviews from fans highlight its inspiring message and memorable characters.
Why Fans Keep Coming Back
- Relatability: The struggles of the characters – grief, insecurity, anger, the desire for redemption – are universal.
- Inspirational Story: The journey of disparate individuals learning to function as a unit and achieving success against overwhelming odds is inherently uplifting.
- ** quotable Lines:** Beyond the iconic "A team is not a team..." line, the film is peppered with memorable dialogue that sticks with you.
- Re-watchability: The emotional beats, coupled with exciting fight sequences, make it a film that holds up well to repeated viewings. You pick up new nuances with each watch.
- Nostalgia Factor: For those who grew up in the late 80s and early 90s, Best of the Best is a cherished piece of cinematic history, evoking fond memories of a simpler time in filmmaking.
Behind the Scenes: The Making of a Martial Arts Classic
Bringing Best of the Best to life required a blend of directorial vision, acting talent, and authentic martial arts expertise. The creative team behind the film understood the delicate balance required to make a sports drama both thrilling and emotionally resonant.
Robert Radler's Vision
Director Robert Radler, while not a household name, crafted a film that punched above its weight. His direction emphasized character moments and emotional stakes as much as, if not more than, the action sequences. Radler allowed the actors to breathe life into their roles, ensuring that the audience connected with the men behind the kicks. His approach made the film feel less like a B-movie action flick and more like a genuine drama with martial arts elements. He understood that the heart of the story was in the relationships.
Phillip Rhee's Dual Role
One of the unsung heroes of Best of the Best is Phillip Rhee. Not only did he deliver a compelling performance as Alex Grady, but he also served as the film's martial arts coordinator. This dual role was crucial in ensuring the authenticity and quality of the fight choreography. Rhee, with his extensive background in Tae Kwon Do, meticulously designed the sequences to be dynamic, believable, and to showcase the true essence of the sport. His involvement meant that the fighting wasn't just window dressing; it was an integral part of the storytelling, reflecting the characters' skills and emotional states.
The Training and Choreography
The commitment to authenticity extended to the training regimen for the cast. While Rhee himself was a seasoned martial artist, actors like Eric Roberts also underwent rigorous training to make their movements credible. This dedication ensured that the sparring and tournament scenes felt intense and realistic. The choreography itself was a testament to precision and power, capturing the speed and grace of Tae Kwon Do while also conveying the impact of each strike. The final tournament, in particular, is a masterclass in martial arts filmmaking, with each match telling its own mini-story within the larger narrative.
Beyond the Original: The Legacy and Sequels
The success and enduring popularity of Best of the Best naturally led to attempts to replicate its magic. The franchise expanded, albeit with varying degrees of critical and fan reception, trying to capture the initial film's blend of action and heart.
Best of the Best II and its Path
Released in 1993, Best of the Best II brought back Phillip Rhee and Eric Roberts, continuing the story of Alex Grady and Travis Brickley. This sequel ventured into a darker, more revenge-driven narrative, moving away from the tournament structure of the original. While it delivered more intense martial arts action and a higher body count, it generally lacked the emotional depth and character-driven focus that made the first film so special. Fans often appreciate the action sequences but feel it strayed from the spirit of brotherhood that defined its predecessor. It highlighted the challenge of recapturing a specific alchemy.
The Prequels and the Franchise's Evolution
The franchise continued with Best of the Best 3: No Turning Back (1995) and Best of the Best 4: Without Warning (1998), both directed by and starring Phillip Rhee. These later installments further explored different narrative paths, often focusing on Rhee's character tackling social injustices or personal threats outside of the martial arts tournament setting. While they offered more opportunities for Rhee to showcase his martial arts prowess, they struggled to garner the same cult status or critical appreciation as the original film.
The evolution of the Best of the Best franchise serves as a classic example in filmmaking: sometimes, the lightning-in-a-bottle magic of an original film is nearly impossible to replicate, especially when subsequent entries diverge too far from the core themes and character dynamics that made the first one resonate so deeply. The original "best of the best movie" remains the benchmark, a standalone masterpiece in the eyes of many fans.
Why You Should Revisit (Or Discover) Best of the Best Today
Whether you’re a lifelong martial arts enthusiast, a lover of inspiring sports dramas, or simply looking for a dose of genuine 80s cinema, Best of the Best offers a compelling and thoroughly enjoyable experience.
An Underrated Gem for Sports Drama Enthusiasts
If you appreciate films like Rocky, Hoosiers, or Miracle, then Best of the Best deserves a spot on your watch list. It skillfully combines intense athletic competition with profound personal journeys. It's not just about who wins the fight; it's about what each character overcomes to even step into the ring. The emotional investment you build in these characters makes the stakes feel incredibly high, far beyond the score of a match.
A Dose of 80s Nostalgia with Real Heart
Beyond the big hair and synth-heavy soundtrack (which, let's be honest, are part of the charm!), Best of the Best provides a window into a specific era of action filmmaking. It's a film made before CGI dominated, relying on real stunts, real martial arts, and real emotional performances. It's earnest, heartfelt, and refreshingly sincere, standing as a testament to the power of traditional storytelling. It's cinematic comfort food that actually nourishes.
The Universal Message of Teamwork and Perseverance
At its heart, Best of the Best delivers a timeless message that transcends its martial arts setting. It teaches us about the importance of family (chosen or blood), the courage to face our fears, the strength found in unity, and the incredible power of perseverance. In a world that often celebrates individual glory, this film is a powerful reminder that sometimes, the greatest victories are achieved when we put aside our differences and truly fight together. It's a message that never gets old and always resonates.
So, gather your team, metaphorically speaking, and dive into this inspiring classic. You might just find that the lessons learned in the Tae Kwon Do arena of 1989 are exactly what you need today.