BFI’s ‘Art of Action’ season: A celebration of cinematic adrenaline

A high-octane journey through action cinema

The British Film Institute (BFI) is gearing up to captivate audiences with its upcoming “Art of Action” season, a thrilling celebration of action choreography in cinema. This event, running from October to December, promises to take viewers on an exhilarating ride through the evolution of the action genre.

The return of a cult classic

One of the highlights of this season is the re-release of Kathryn Bigelow’s 1991 cult classic, Point Break. Starring Keanu Reeves and Patrick Swayze, this film will make a grand return to U.K. cinemas on November 8. For both nostalgic fans and new viewers, this is a golden opportunity to experience the adrenaline-pumping action on the big screen once again.

Celebrating the artistry of action

The “Art of Action” season, presented by the BFI Film Audience Network with support from National Lottery funds, aims to showcase the intricate artistry behind action sequences that have mesmerized audiences for decades. The program features a diverse array of films, spanning from silent era classics like Buster Keaton’s The General (1926) to swashbuckling adventures such as The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938), and gritty classics like The Wild Bunch (1969).

Themes and highlights

The program is structured around three key themes: action through the ages, female representation in the genre, and the global cross-pollination of action cinema. More than 50 venues across the U.K. will participate, offering screenings of iconic titles alongside lesser-known gems. Audiences can expect to see Hong Kong action cinema represented by Jackie Chan’s Police Story trilogy (1985-1992) and Michelle Yeoh in Yes, Madam (1985). The program will also showcase international hits like Run Lola Run (1998) from Germany and the martial arts epic Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000).

London’s BFI Southbank: The heart of the season

At the core of the season, London’s BFI Southbank will host a dedicated program from October 21 to November 30. This lineup will delve into various themes within action cinema, including the contributions of women, the work of master director John Woo, and the influence of Bollywood. A special “Stunt Saturday” event on November 16 will feature talks, panels, and workshops celebrating the art of stunts.

Spotlight on action cinema history

The BFI is also using this opportunity to spotlight significant works in action cinema history. A new 4K UHD restoration of Akira Kurosawa’s influential Seven Samurai will be released on October 21, with select theatrical screenings beginning September 27. The film will premiere at BFI IMAX on September 26.

Modern action films and emerging talent

Modern action films will also feature prominently, with screenings of recent hits like Everything Everywhere All at Once and entries from the John Wick and Mission: Impossible franchises. The season will also highlight emerging talent with films like Nida Manzoor’s Polite Society (2023), which blends action and comedy in a fresh way.

Events across the U.K.

Events across the U.K. will cater to various interests and demographics. These include Broadway Cinema Nottingham’s action mini-season for under-25s and marginalized audiences, Cromarty Community Cinema’s “Cromarty Kicks Ass” program in the Scottish Highlands, and the ninth edition of the Fighting Spirit Film Festival.

Streaming action classics

For those unable to attend in-person events, the BFI will make a curated collection of action films available to stream on BFI Player. This online offering will feature a mix of classic and contemporary titles, including Bruce Lee’s Fist of Fury (1972), The Street Fighter (1974) with Sonny Chiba, Jackie Chan’s Armour of God (1986), John Woo’s Heroes Shed No Tears (1986), and the recent indie hit Leonor Will Never Die (2022).

A personal reflection

As a cinema enthusiast, the “Art of Action” season is a dream come true. It’s a rare chance to see some of the most influential action films on the big screen, to appreciate the artistry behind the stunts, and to explore the genre’s rich history and global impact. Whether you’re a die-hard action fan or a casual moviegoer, this season offers something for everyone. So, grab your popcorn and get ready for an action-packed adventure that promises to be both thrilling and enlightening.