Bloodsport 1988 | 80's Movie Guide

Bloodsport movie synopsis. Frank Dux has spent most his life being trained by Tanaka to participate in the Kumite, the ultimate martial arts tournament, where participants are seriously injured, even killed. Frank decides to go despite being told by his superiors in the army that he can't because they need him. Two army officers are sent to get him and the trail leads to Hong Kong but Frank eludes them. While Frank advances, he knows that he may have to face Chong Li, the defending champion, who has killed a few participants. Bloodsport is a 1988 American martial arts film directed by Newt Arnold. It stars Jean-Claude Van Damme, Donald Gibb, Leah Ayres, and Bolo Yeung. The film is partly based on unverified claims made by martial artist Frank Dux. It sold well at the box office, grossing $65 million on a budget of $1.5–2.3 million. Bloodsport was one of Van Damme's first starring films and showcased his athletic abilities. It has since become a cult film. Bloodsport (1988) Directed by: Newt Arnold Starring: Jean-Claude Van Damme, Donald Gibb, Leah Ayres, Norman Burton, Forest Whitaker, Bolo Yeung, Kimo Lai Kwok Ki, Joshua Schroder Screenplay by: Christopher Cosby, Mel Friedman, Sheldon Lettich Production Design by: David Searl Cinematography by: David Worth Film Editing by: Carl Kress, Michael J. Duthie, Jean-Claude Van Damme Music by: Paul Hertzog Distributed by: The Cannon Group, Universal Studios Release Date: February 26, 1988