Iko Uwais Returns to Indonesian Action Roots with ‘Warrior’
Iko Uwais, the Indonesian martial arts star renowned for the “Raid” franchise, is set to lead “Warrior,” a new action thriller filmed in Indonesia. The film marks a return to the Silat-based fighting style that propelled him to international fame. Uwais will also serve as an executive producer through his newly established Uwais Pictures label.
Plot Details
“Warrior” centers on a former elite Silat practitioner who, after being released from prison, attempts to abandon his violent past behind. His plans are disrupted when a Malaysian crime syndicate encroaches on his neighborhood, threatening the community he cares about. Forced back into action, he becomes the only hope against the syndicate’s control, leading to escalating conflict across Jakarta’s urban landscape.
Behind the Camera
The film represents the solo directorial debut of John Radel ACS, a cinematographer and producer with experience on major productions like Dev Patel’s “Monkey Man” and Michael Mann’s “Blackhat.” Radel has a pre-existing working relationship with Uwais, having collaborated on four previous films as both director of photography and producer. They are also working together on the upcoming action feature “Warpath,” co-starring Scott Adkins.
Production Team
The project is a collaboration between Indonesian industry veteran Delon Tio’s Nation Pictures, known for films like “Macabre,” and Yeti Entertainment, represented by Erika North and Nick North, a company with a strong international presence in film development and finance. Mike Leeder of Red Packet Media is also producing. International sales will be handled by K-Movie Entertainment.
New Joint Venture
“Warrior” is the first project to emerge from a newly formed joint venture between Asia Media Alliance Group and Nation Pictures. This partnership aims to produce genre films across Southeast Asia for the international market, with plans to announce a broader slate of action and horror titles in the coming months.
Filming and Location
Production is scheduled to initiate this summer and will be entirely based in Indonesia, utilizing local locations, crews, and emerging martial arts talent.
Representation
Iko Uwais is represented by Brett Norensberg at Gersh and Mike Straut at Vault.