Hey guys! Ever heard of Iko Uwais and Julie Estelle? If you're into badass Indonesian action movies, then you definitely should have! These two are like the king and queen of bone-crunching, gravity-defying fight scenes. Let's dive into some of their most iconic films, shall we?

The Raid: Redemption (2011)

Okay, let's kick things off with a bang. "The Raid: Redemption" is the movie that pretty much put Iko Uwais on the map globally. Directed by Gareth Evans, this film is an adrenaline shot straight to the heart. The plot is simple: a SWAT team gets trapped in a high-rise building run by a ruthless drug lord. But trust me, the simplicity ends there.

Iko Uwais plays Rama, a rookie SWAT team member who quickly becomes the squad's last hope. What follows is a relentless, brutal, and beautifully choreographed onslaught of martial arts mayhem. Seriously, the fight choreography in "The Raid" is on another level. It's raw, visceral, and incredibly intense. Every punch, kick, and stab feels like it really hurts. The close-quarters combat is absolutely mesmerizing, and you'll find yourself gripping your seat throughout the entire movie.

But it's not just about the action. The Raid also boasts some surprisingly effective tension-building and suspense. As Rama fights his way through floor after floor of increasingly dangerous criminals, the stakes keep getting higher and higher. You genuinely care about whether he'll make it out alive, which makes the action even more impactful. The film also features a few memorable villains who are both terrifying and charismatic in their own right. "The Raid" isn't just a great action movie; it's a masterclass in action filmmaking. It set a new standard for martial arts movies, and it's a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

The Raid 2 (2014)

How do you follow up a movie as groundbreaking as "The Raid: Redemption"? Well, Gareth Evans decided to go bigger, bolder, and even more brutal with "The Raid 2". This time, Rama (Iko Uwais) goes undercover to expose corruption within the Jakarta police force and bring down a powerful criminal syndicate. Forget the single building; this sequel opens up into a sprawling crime epic.

"The Raid 2" is longer and more ambitious than its predecessor. It features a more complex plot with multiple factions vying for control of the city's underworld. Rama's journey takes him deep into the criminal world, where he faces off against a colourful cast of villains, each with their own unique fighting style and weapon of choice. The action sequences are even more elaborate and inventive this time around. From a car chase that's pure vehicular mayhem to a prison riot that's utterly chaotic, "The Raid 2" constantly raises the bar for action cinema.

Julie Estelle joins the cast as Hammer Girl, a deadly assassin who wields two claw hammers with lethal precision. Her fight scenes are among the most memorable in the film, showcasing her incredible athleticism and fighting skills. She is absolutely ruthless and adds a different flavor of action to the film. The Raid 2 is not just a sequel; it's a cinematic experience. It's a sprawling, violent, and utterly captivating action masterpiece. If you loved the first film, you absolutely have to see this one.

Headshot (2016)

"Headshot" is another action-packed thriller starring Iko Uwais, but this time, he plays a character with amnesia who washes ashore after a violent attack. As he tries to piece together his past, he becomes the target of a ruthless drug lord and his army of assassins.

In "Headshot," Iko Uwais showcases not only his martial arts prowess but also his acting abilities. His character's struggle with memory loss adds an emotional layer to the action, making it more than just a series of fight scenes. The film features intense and gritty action sequences, with Iko Uwais delivering his signature brand of bone-breaking martial arts. The fight choreography is top-notch, and the film doesn't shy away from violence.

The supporting cast is also excellent, with each villain bringing their own unique brand of menace to the screen. The film keeps you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end, with twists and turns that will keep you guessing. Overall, "Headshot" is a must-see for fans of action thrillers and Iko Uwais. This film also highlights how diverse Iko's filmography is, preventing him from being typecast.

Mile 22 (2018)

Okay, so "Mile 22" isn't exactly an Indonesian film, but it stars Iko Uwais alongside Mark Wahlberg, so it definitely deserves a mention. This action thriller follows an elite CIA operative (Wahlberg) who must transport a valuable asset (Uwais) 22 miles to an extraction point while being pursued by enemy forces.

While "Mile 22" received mixed reviews, it's still worth watching for Iko Uwais's action sequences alone. He gets to showcase his martial arts skills in several intense fight scenes, and he more than holds his own against the Hollywood action stars. Sure, the plot might be a bit generic, but the action is solid, and Iko Uwais brings his A-game. If you're a fan of his work, you'll definitely find something to enjoy in "Mile 22". Seeing Iko in a Hollywood setting gives him more visibility to the world and this film helps bridge the gap between the east and the west.

Stuber (2019)

Another movie where Iko Uwais gets to show his range is "Stuber". Though it's primarily a comedy, Iko plays a serious and intimidating villain. The movie stars Kumail Nanjiani as Stu, an Uber driver who unwittingly picks up a detective (Dave Bautista) hot on the trail of a drug lord Teijo (Iko Uwais). Hilarity and chaos ensue.

While Iko isn't the main focus, his presence adds a layer of danger and excitement to the film. When he does get to fight, he's as deadly as ever. It's fun to see him play a more villainous role, and he does it with convincing menace. "Stuber" is a fun, action-comedy that's perfect for a casual movie night. This film is a change of pace for Iko, as he gets to explore acting outside the martial arts realm. It is a testament to his ability to diversify his acting career.

Why These Movies Are Awesome

So, what makes these Iko Uwais and Julie Estelle movies so great? Well, for starters, the action is phenomenal. These films feature some of the most innovative and bone-crunching fight choreography in modern cinema. But it's not just about the action; these movies also have compelling stories, memorable characters, and a raw, visceral energy that's hard to resist. Both of them demonstrate that Indonesian cinema can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best action films from around the world. The visual storytelling, sound effects and the dedication of all involved in these projects is inspirational and a feast for the eyes.

If you're an action movie fan, you owe it to yourself to check out these films. You won't be disappointed!