Movie Breakdown: The Art Of Self Defense

Pre-Screening Stance:

The Art of Self Defense screened at SXSW earlier this year, and it seemed to go over pretty well with those that saw it.  I also think the trailers hint at what could be this summer’s only real slice of dark comedy, so I’m excited to dive in and see what it has to offer.

Post-Screening Ramble:

The Art of Self Defense is a very dark and very funny film about masculinity.  It’s centered around Casey (Jessie Eisenberg as squirrely as he’s ever been), a rather meager, awkward accountant who takes up karate after he gets jumped by a motorcycle gang.  Naturally, he’s not sure if someone as weak as him should be involved in such an activity, but he sticks it out and ultimately becomes obsessed with training.  He also quickly finds himself drawn to the dojo’s master, a total brute who simply goes by Sensei (Alessandro Nivola doing some of his finest work).  Casey desires to become “what he fears,” and Sensei does whatever he needs to in order to make sure that his happens.  What a good friend!  And by good, I definitely mean toxic.  That’s the road this film takes you down though, as it aims to explore the fine line between being a strong man and an obnoxious meathead.  The latter here is obviously Sensei, but Casey runs the gamut of masculinity throughout The Art of Self Defense as he tries to figure out and understand what time of man he wants to be. His journey of self discovery made me laugh, cringe, sigh and – every now and again – begrudgingly nod in agreement.

Honestly, I think the film kind of muddles its message in the final act, but overall this one is definitely worth your time if you like weird/dark/twisted comedies.

One Last Thought:

When I was a kid I really wanted to take karate (probably because of movies like The Karate Kid, 3 Ninjas, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and such), but I always got a weird vibe from anyone who was involved in it.  This movie very much reaffirmed my decision to not join up.