The Art of Self-Defense

Synopsis

In the dark comedy film "The Art of Self-Defense" released in 2019, Jesse Eisenberg plays a timid man who, after a brutal attack, decides to learn Karate to defend himself. As he delves deeper into the world of martial arts, he discovers a dark and peculiar underbelly, challenging his perceptions and changing him in unexpected ways. With a mix of humor, tension, and satire, the movie explores themes of masculinity, power dynamics, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. Eisenberg brings his signature nuanced performance that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish, making this film a thought-provoking and entertaining watch.

Cast

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  Jesse Eisenberg

  Casey

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  Alessandro Nivola

  Sensei

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  Imogen Poots

  Anna

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  Steve Terada

  Thomas

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  David Zellner

  Henry

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  Phillip Andre Botello

  Kennith

Reviews

The Art of Self-Defense receives a mix of positive and negative reviews, showcasing its divisive nature. Rotten Tomatoes rates it at 83%, with the consensus stating that it's a darkly comedic take on toxic masculinity. IMDb gives it a respectable 6.6/10, highlighting Eisenberg's outstanding performance and the film's unique storytelling. Metacritic offers a score of 65/100, noting the film's quirky humor and sharp social commentary. Some critics praise the movie's dark humor and bold approach, while others criticize its pacing and tonal inconsistencies. Overall, "The Art of Self-Defense" stands out as a darkly funny exploration of identity and power dynamics in a martial arts setting.