The Ultimate Ninja Movie Countdown
The Tradition Continues…
It has become a tradition here at Bulletproof Action each year the staff of the site teams ups with a “panel of experts” for a mega-post, that looks at the best of the best of a certain niche of the action world.
In 2018 we looked back at the glorious world of Cannon films, in 2019 we delved into the PM Entertainment library, last year we paid tribute to the movies of Albert Pyun, but this year it is all about the Ninjas.
Nine special guests were invited to join myself, Chad Cruise, Matt Spector, Chris DePetrillo, Ryan Campbell and Todd Gaines and here they are…
- Keith Rainville: We needed at least one LEGIT expert on the panel to give the rest of us credibility and Keith, who runs VintageNinja.net, is THE subject matter expert.
- Austin Trunick: Not only is Austin a huge fan of Cannon, a company that was a big part of the ninja craze of the 1980s, he is also the author of The Cannon Film Guide.
- Mike Scott: The host of the Adkins Undisputed podcast along with a man who has some actual ninja experience… Scott Adkins himself!
- Matthew Whittaker: The host of The Clones Cast and Screen Mayhem/Cinema Bushido impresario.
- Dominik Starck: Director, producer, writer, actor… Germany’s own Dominik Starck is our inside man in the action movie industry.
- Will Slater: The mastermind behind ExplodingHelicopter.com and the host of the Exploding Helicopter Podcast.
- Matt Poirier: Published author and the DTV Connoisseur himself.
- Robb Antequera: The host of The Action Drunkies Podcast and Ultimate Action Movie Club contributor.
- Saurav Dutt: Author and political analyst for several major outlets, Saurav is an avid listener of the Bulletproof Podcast, and it was his suggestion for a ninja themed episode that was the genesis of this year’s Ultimate Ninja Movie Countdown, so it is only fitting that Saurav kick things off…
Introduction by Saurav Dutt
There are a few uncontestable facts in life-death and taxes are two of them, but there is a third that we often forget at our peril and that is that only a ninja can defeat a ninja. That said it’d be pretty cool to be slain by a Ninja right? A shuriken to the carotid artery, a samurai blade across your lumbar region, exploding laser bombs shot through from an in-sleeve rocket to your orbital bone, all these beat the mundane stuff we have to contend with like heart disease, high cholesterol, and cancer.
So let’s don a pink Ninja outfit, sans NINJA! headband, do a few backflips and shoot out a few shuriken because we can. You may strongly disagree with some of these choices but by the time you shoot that email over to your congressman with your bellyaching, a ninja death squad will have already have placed an incendiary device underneath your bedsheets. Check under there now, you can thank me later. No seriously, go…
The Ultimate Ninja Movie Countdown
Todd Gaines: Pray for Death is one of the greatest ninja movies of all time. Sho Kosugi fights like a boss and Kane Kosugi is probably my favorite little kid ninja to ever grace the screen.
Robb Antequera: The ultimate Ninja movie, bar none. Sho Kosugi, the one and true champion of the ninjas, is at his very best in this, an absolute classic of Ninja action. Part Ninja movie, part Walking Tall style vigilante movie, Pray for Death is an amazingly glorious piece of entertainment, with a climax that rivals Commando as the most violent action movie finale ever, as well as the most ultimate display of Ninja vengeance ever. I mean, where else can you see countless bad guys get eviscerated by a very pissed off Sho Kosugi who’s dressed like Shredder from Ninja Turtles? Only this one, baby. Only this one.
Austin Trunick: The last part of this movie is essentially Death Wish with a ninja. My favorite of Sho Kosugi’s post-Cannon vehicles, it’s a great showcase (Sho-case?) for the talents that made him the top ninja of the 1980s. While I’m not as big a fan of Sho’s Shredder armor in this movie as some (I’d have preferred a standard shozoku), the final assault gives him the chance to play with an incredible assortment of ninja weapons and gadgets. Plus, he faces off against perhaps his most worthy foe in the form of a slimy hitman played by James Booth, who’d soon head over Cannon’s way to write Avenging Force and a pair of American Ninja sequels. Their final showdown is one of those rare ninja vs. non-ninja battles that seems fairly matched: it’s a brutal, drag-out fight that goes from the open highway, to an incredibly spooky-looking mannequin warehouse, to an out-of-service lumber mill. If you’ve ever wanted to see how a ninja might defend themselves from an assault by chainsaw, well, here’s your opportunity.
Dominik Starck: One might argue the original TMNT movie isn’t about the kind of ninjas we imagine when the word is dropped. But just because they’re a different kind of ninja it doesn’t mean they’re lesser masters of the craft. Also; it’s right there in the title (except for Germany and the UK where they dropped “Ninja” from the title and made them “Hero Turtles” throughout the 80’s and 90’s, because “ninjas” are inappropriate for children). I love TMNT (as do probably most people my age) and their nemesis Shredder is the perfect blend of ninja master and dark samurai (hence the costume). Out of the sewer and into the shadows of night-time New York. That’s the way of the ninja.
Chris DePetrillo: Like most 10 year olds, I loved the cartoon. Unlike most 10 year olds, I had already seen my fair share of action films intended for an older audience. What really hooked me is how it strays from the vibrancy of the cartoon series, going with a gritty touch akin to the original TMNT comics. I think that’s what gives this one everlasting appeal with action fans; you don’t feel like you’re watching a kids movie.
Robb Antequera: I know some of you might see this and give this a sideways glance, but the majority cannot dispute that this was a major influence in our love for all things Ninja related. Sure, there were the comics (which were a bit too dark for the youngsters), and the animated series (which was a bit too silly for the older kids), but the original film from 1990 was just the right combination of both to satisfy both parties… as well as featuring some awesome martial arts action choreography by expert fight choreographer Pat E. Johnson.
Chad Cruise: The opening scene combines two of my favorite things in the world: ninjas and training montages. It showcases the majesty of their craft alongside some absolutely excellent music. The opening scene ends as the final credit flashes across the screen while the ninjas are literally burying themselves underground to breathe through bamboo stalks. For any first time viewer, you’ll be able to tell right away if this movie is for you.
Mike Scott: There’s no question there are probably dozens of ninja movies more deserving of being #8 than Ninja in the Dragon’s Den, but those movies aren’t directed by Corey Yuen and they don’t star Hiroyuki Sanada, and that’s what sets this one apart. Sanada’s ninja is out to get revenge for his father but crosses paths with Conan Lee’s Chinese martial artist. While the two initially clash, they eventually team up and, under Yuen’s direction, show off some of the best kicking you’ll ever see. Seriously, if all you know Sanada from is his Western stuff like Mortal Kombat you need to see this as soon as you can.
Chris The Brain: I could talk about the chemistry between Conan Lee and Hiroyuki Sanada. I could talk about this being a ninja movie sprinkled with the undeniable Seasonal Film magic. But truth be told this movie would deserve to be on the list for the opening theme song alone… “The Legend of the Ninja” by the Alfredo Chen Singers is really something special.
Matthew Whittaker: Lady Ninjas. Lady ninjas that cut down badass Samurai limb from limb, literally. This is an awesome tale based on Lone Wolf and Cub 1 and 2 (a celebrated manga turned live action series) about a Samurai and his young son on the run for a corrupt clan. The Supreme Ninja is a leader of a clan of very skilled Ninja women who are paid to take on Lone Wolf and Cub, leading to a chase, and some excellent scenes of ninja carnage.
Chad Cruise: No other film series has the re-watchability that the Lone Wolf and Cub series has for me. Yes, I’ve definitely seen the original Star Wars trilogy more times and I can’t even fathom how many times I’ve watched the Aliens films but neither of those feature such an unmistakably cool hero like Ogami Itto and his son. Hordes of lethal ninjas versus the most badass ronin in history. I just hope you’re ready for an insane amount of severed limbs!
Keith Rainville: The king of anime ninja, still copied to this day, even in digitally-assisted live action. But Ninja Scroll itself stands on the shoulders of giants like Kamui Gaiden and Kaze no Fujimaru — manga and anime crossovers that introduced lone ninja wanderers, insanely designed villains and sword-and-shuriken combat in the tree tops. The impact this film had worldwide on animators, action directors and video game designers cannot be understated.
Ryan Campbell: Ninja Scroll is a mainstay must watch on many anime fans lists. The first time I ever watched it was in high school at a buddy’s house. We rented it at a Blockbuster Video which is this ancient temple where people would borrow movies. We watched it with his dad there and it was increasingly awkward because we did not know what to expect. It is an awesome premise of revenge and reconciliation done in that early 90’s style that many consider to be the absolute peak of anime. If your not big on anime but are down for ninja stories Ninja Scroll NEEDS to be in your list. It has ninjas, spies, demons and anime babes. C’mon, what else do you need?
Will Slater: The only thing more foolish than killing Scott Adkins’ wife, is killing Scott Adkins’ pregnant wife. That’s the set-up for this fantastic revenge thriller which provides the British beat’em up star with the perfect showcase for his martial arts skills. Director Isaac Florentine is a cult legend for his ability to stage action, but here he elevates the film with his deft storytelling, adroit pacing, and ability to coax a dramatic performance Adkins.
Sauruv Dutt: I’m going to go out and say it, Scott Adkins is the premier Western martial arts actor of our times. Everyone knows how much he is appreciated among the action film community and that elusive crossover role just might be John Wick IV but even if it doesn’t happen, he has cemented his legacy through a run of action-packed blockbusters that leave martial arts and mayhem fans satisfied. While he clearly showed his talent in earlier work like Special Forces and the first Ninja, it’s in this sequel that he takes his ability to another level. You can’t say this film is dunked in cheese with your nachos because Ninja: Shadow of a Tear takes itself-and its action-very seriously and the result is one of the most impressive martial arts films to rival The Raid and its sequel in my humble opinion. Adkins has the presence, the intelligence to understand shaky cam fights are an insult to fans and the art of fighting, and the films pays respect to Ninja folklore by integrating their weaponry and making them dangerous again. If you need an introduction to Adkins then start here-it eclipses the original by a country mile- he is an unstoppable force of nature, a ripped fighting machine that throws his body and soul into pleasing the fans.
Mike Scott: Look I have to stay on brand here, but in this case it’s also wholly appropriate. Isaac Florentine’s Ninja: Shadow of a Tear is the culmination of every ninja movie that’s come before, building on the tropes developed in the Sam Firstenberg Cannon films but delivering the high level martial arts of their Japanese counterparts, while adding in the one and only Scott Adkins. Adkins teams with longtime choreography partner Tim Man and the results are legendary. 11 jaw dropping action scenes keep the dialed to maximum. Possibly the best Adkins movie, but definitely my favorite ninja movie.
Matt Poirier: This was the ultimate VCR burner for my friends and I. Just the scene where James yells “I want fresh meat!” was rewound and replayed over and over. Everything from Part 1 is enhanced and turned up to 11. James’ character isn’t Dudikoff’s sidekick, he’s his partner, and equally contributes to the action; and at the same time, Dudikoff picks up right where he left off from the first one, only he adds in a comedic element to the brooding character that makes it all that much better. And as if that all weren’t enough, the film features Guns N’ Roses’ “Move to the City”.
Robb Antequera: The original American Ninja released in 1985 is an absolute classic of the Ninja genre, no question about it. But I truly feel this sequel surpasses it in every way. Everything about it is just better: The action, the chemistry between stars Michael Dudikoff and the late, great Steve James, the score, the location. Just 100% more entertaining. Even with the obvious Dudikoff double who looks directly into the camera. Definitely my favorite of the American Ninja movies.
Matt Spector: Easily the greatest (Western) duo in a ninja film is Michael Dudikoff and Steve James as Armstrong and Jackson. While they debuted in the original, the sequel is superior to the original in nearly every way, except that it came second. It puts an element of fun into the proceedings that was missing from the original without taking away from the serious ninja action. Don’t believe me? Hook your peepers onto the Blind Beggar Bar fight.
Austin Trunick: Michael Dudikoff. Steve James. Need I say more? One of ’80s action’s most dynamic duos began here. Dudikoff gave us a Western ninja who was far easier to take seriously than Franco Nero’s Enter the Ninja hero, and launched a franchise that’s solid through-and-through. Come for Tadashi Yamashita and his color-coded Black Star Army, stay for Joe Armstrong obliterating a platoon of ninjas with a shovel, screwdriver, and wrench. The second film is just as good — containing several of my favorite Steve James moments — and the further sequels are all worth watching. (I’m a David Bradley defender.) The first, though, earns this spot from me for launching the franchise.
Matthew Whittaker: The nostalgia is strong on this one, because as a “ninja” Michael Dudikoff is not much of a ninja. He can kick ass though. This is an odd tale of a man with a hidden past conscripted to the military and trying to get the girl – the Colonel’s Daughter no less. In turn, he messes with the wrong people and has to fight his way to stopping a black-market guns operation. It is a goofy movie with some fun battles against the Black Star ninjas, explosions, rapid fire guns, oh, and he jumps a motorcycle over a tall fence.
Dominik Starck: Sure, the first of the three sequels might be the better ninja movie, but let’s be honest; without Sam Firstenberg’s original American Ninja, starring the charming surfer boy Michael Dudikoff, we never would’ve gotten the worldwide 80’s ninja mania. So watch in awe how U.S. ranger Joe Armstrong (Dudi) can’t remember his past but does remember all his ninjitsu skills. It’s one for the ages. And another example of censorship of the weird kind since the movie’s known as American Fighter in Germany simply because “ninjas are a bad thing and we have to protect our youth”.
Matt Poirier: The one that started it all, it epitomizes the 80s ninja film. We have a brooding white guy with a past whose mysterious demeanor and six-pack abs win over the female lead; ninjas who can do anything we need them to do at any time, making them essentially omnipotent; and then said brooding white guy comes in as the only one who can beat them. Also, great performance by Steve James in a supporting role.
Keith Rainville: Americans invented the notion of ancient ninja in the modern world, while in Hong Kong this Shaw Brothers multi-chromatic masterpiece cemented the equally unique idea of Japanese ninja being the ultimate enemy of Chinese kung-fu and the corruptors of the ‘martial world.’ Squads of gold, blue, red, woodland brown and black ninja bathe ancient China in blood in a shockingly gory and jaw-droppingly innovative clash with the ‘Venom Mob.’ Bat-sh*t crazy in all the best ways…
Will Slater: This ninjitsu assault on the senses has classic status for a reason, and I’m not about to troll the internet by arguing to the contrary. The plot may be achingly familiar (a conflict between two martial arts schools), but director Chang Cheh goes all-in on the concept. Our hero’s opponents all have uniquely different fighting styles, weapons, and costumes. Meanwhile the visual kaleidoscope is accentuated by Cheh’s commitment to gruesome, gut-spilling, violence. And the ending is an unforgettable 20 minutes of non-stop action insanity.
Mike Scott: It’s no secret that the later years of the great Chang Cheh’s career were extremely hit or miss, but this one is absolutely a hit. A lone Chinese warrior must learn the secrets of ninjitsu to avenge the murder of his clan by a group of element based ninjas. Bright and colorful but with a staggering amount of gore, there is more fun to be had here than just about any movie you will ever see. I mean unless you don’t like seeing a ninja ripped completely in half, but if that’s the case then you’re no friend of mine.
Matt Poirier: No ninja movie list would be complete without at least one Sho Kosugi movie, and I picked this one because I thought it was more fun than Pray for Death, and Rage of Honor doesn’t feature him in a ninja suit. Kosugi is fantastic as always, and I think it’s also maybe the best example of Cannon’s bouillabaisse approach to film making, where you just throw everything in the pot–you can’t beat the Village People-like gang the filmmakers added in for good measure. In my review I wrote on it, I called it “a virtual cornucopia of amazing action without a hint of pretense.”
Keith Rainville: It’s the apex of the Sho Kosugi Cannon trilogy, and the apex of the 1980s ninja boom for anyone who was there for it. This simple formula — modern ninja with feudal-era costuming and arsenals slaughtering goons with machine guns — is what we wanted, and while contenders like Pray for Death and American Ninja came close (while divergences like Ninja III: The Domination were the first chinks in the armor of the craze), nothing ever topped its sheer bloatedness of action scenes and brazenness of over-the-top violence.
Mike Scott: Anytime a movie is filmed in my hometown of Salt Lake City it has a special place for me. It’s even better if it’s directed by Sam Firstenberg and stars the legendary Sho Kosugi. While Enter the Ninja was the first of Cannon’s ninja classics, it’s really Revenge that cemented Kosugi as an action star and set the template for so many ninja movies to follow, including my top choice. Plus there’s a major fight scene at the same playground I used to play ninjas at as a kid.
Austin Trunick: Revenge of the Ninja is not only my favorite ninja movie, but if you were going to hold a kama to my throat and force me to pick, I’d say it was my favorite Cannon movie, period. (And that means a lot, coming from me.) It hits the perfect sweet spot for me between b-movie silliness, and all-out ninja action. The balance is sublime. This is a movie with an ass-kicking eight-year-old, a backflipping granny, and a dangerous gang of thugs that hangs out at a local playground dressed like the Village People. At the same time, the action is insane — Sho Kosugi went hog wild incorporating a full arsenal of ninja weapons into the fight scenes, and stunt coordinator Steven Lambert designed some of the wildest, scariest-looking stunts you’ll see this side of a Jackie Chan movie. Bless director Sam Firstenberg for not taking a dead-serious approach to the material, and making sure that the movie was above all entertaining from beginning to end. And that boss Rob Walsh score? From where I stand, the final ten minutes — a ninja vs. ninja demon rooftop showdown overlooking scenic Salt Lake City — are, hands down, the pinnacle of ninja cinema.
Stay Tuned…
Special thanks again to everyone who participated in this year’s Ultimate Ninja Movie Countdown. Be on the lookout next week when we present The Honorable Mentions – Ninja Edition and share some of the movies that didn’t make our Top 10 but deserve some of the ninja spotlight.
