American Ninja (1985)

American Ninja (1985) is a cult classic in the action and martial arts genre, directed by Sam Firstenberg and starring Michael Dudikoff and Steve James. Released during the 1980s when martial arts films were enjoying immense popularity, the film blends martial arts action with the military-action style that defined the era’s cinema.

The story follows Joe Armstrong (Michael Dudikoff), a mysterious loner with a secret past, who is conscripted into the U.S. Army. While stationed in the Philippines, Joe inadvertently discovers his remarkable martial arts abilities when he defends a military convoy from a group of deadly ninjas. His skills catch the attention of both his superiors and the villainous forces behind the attacks.

As the plot unfolds, Joe learns that his ninja abilities were taught to him during his childhood when he was orphaned and trained by a master ninja. With the help of his fellow soldier, Corporal Curtis Jackson (Steve James), Joe unravels a conspiracy involving a corrupt officer, Colonel Hickock, and an arms dealer who employs the ninja assassins. The story culminates in an action-packed showdown where Joe must use his skills to defeat the evil ninjas and save the day.