Ce film est (presque) génial, mais… STREET FIGHTER Critique (sans spoil)

Recap

The reviewer sees the 2026 Street Fighter as a film that comes very close to greatness—and then trips over a few major problems.

The story brings former allies Ryu and Ken back together when Chun-Li draws them into the World Warrior tournament, where a larger plot and their shared past complicate the competition. The reviewer praises the stylish, game-faithful opening 2D animation and says the film gives its fights a stronger story and more character development than Mortal Kombat 2.

Keeping the focus on Ryu, Ken, and Chun-Li mostly works, but the film also tries to squeeze in many familiar faces. Some supporting characters feel hurriedly introduced or sidelined. The biggest casting complaint is Bison: the reviewer thinks David Dastmalchian is too slight and theatrical for a villain who should feel physically imposing. As the reviewer jokes, the role needs a “Thanos in a dictator’s costume.”

Other gripes include humor that lands awkwardly rather than hilariously, despite the film seeming to aim for the goofy spirit of the 1995 movie, and a cliffhanger ending that leaves the story feeling unfinished. Ken’s dim-witted, narcissistic side initially irritates the reviewer, though it ultimately serves the character’s development. The film also moves so relentlessly that it rarely gives the audience a chance to breathe.

Highlights

The film’s strengths are substantial: energetic, smoothly edited fights; a colorful, cartoon-like visual style that embraces the games’ silliness without becoming too kitschy; and gorgeous 2D animated flashbacks that reveal more of the lore. The reviewer also enjoys the game-inspired moments, nods to the 1995 film, and detailed sound design—especially the booming cinema bass.

The cast’s striking physiques become a running joke, along with the reviewer’s mock complaint that even Bison should have been “sexy.”

Verdict

It’s not a failure, and the reviewer recommends seeing it—particularly for the action and animation. With better jokes, a more convincing Bison, and a more satisfying ending, it could have been a genuine gem. The film’s visual approach even gives the reviewer hope that a live-action Dragon Ball Z adaptation could work.

People and Characters Mentioned

• Vin Plot — the reviewer and presenter
• Kitao Sakurai — director
• Ryu, Ken, Chun-Li, Bison, Vega, Balrog, Guile, Dan, Blanka, Akuma, and Honda — Street Fighter characters discussed
• David Dastmalchian — Bison
• Noah Centineo, Andrew Koji, Callina Liang, Mel Jarnson, Cody Rhodes, 50 Cent, and Jason Momoa — cast members mentioned
• Jean-Claude Van Damme — star of the 1995 Street Fighter film