Codec: HEVC / H.265 (56.9 Mb/s)
Resolution: Native 4K (2160p)
HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10+
Aspect ratio: 2.39:1
Original aspect ratio: 2.39:1
#English: DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1
#German: DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1
Another movie centered on mixed martial arts—or in the MMA style—which I try not to miss, and this one is called “Beast".
The mixed martial arts (boxing) theme is already a bit of a “cliché,” but for me personally, what matters most in these movies is the dramatic aspect—with a good plot and strong acting—rather than just the fight scenes; the fights themselves serve as a backdrop running parallel to the main storyline, so I’ve already watched a lot of good movies. For example, I recently watched the boxing drama “The Giant” starring Pierce Brosnan, and I also really liked the movie starring Sydney Sweeney called “ Christy,‘ and I also really enjoyed this movie, 'Beast’ (and the trailer really impressed me, considering that the legendary Russell Crowe also starred in it).
But the lead role was played by Australian actor Daniel McPherson, who portrayed former professional MMA fighter and former champion Patton James, who, many years later, had to return to the ring—though for him, this return was more of a personal journey than a quest for money or a title.
Despite the somewhat familiar plot (revenge, anger, aggression, provocations, family, fights, comebacks), this film still felt above average, as it was made with heart and soul, and Daniel McPherson delivered a solid performance.
Russell Crowe’s role as Coach Sammy was very minor; in fact, I’d say he was there more to draw attention and add a dramatic element, because there was a long-standing bond between his character, Sammy, and Patton James—a bond they had lost.
Patton himself was a man faced with a choice, and he had no other option, since honor, dignity, and family are more important than anything else—especially when you’re provoked and your family is under attack. The role of this man was played by another fighter and reigning champion, Xavier Grau (portrayed by Bren Foster).
Incidentally, another interesting aspect of the film that added to its realism was the inclusion of the actual “ONE Championship” promotion, where the fights took place.
The film also focused on the fights, which looked quite brutal, intense, and realistic, and the actors did a solid job—not only physically but also in terms of the fight choreography. Training scenes are another key part of the film; I’ve always found this aspect particularly compelling, as it injects a lot of energy into the film and makes it more engaging to watch. But even here, there were many similarities— I mean, at first the main character had a hard time, but then he found the strength and motivation to train even harder, and it was precisely this phase of intense training that gave the film its final push.
Among the well-known faces in the film is Luke Hemsworth, the older brother of Chris and Liam Hemsworth.
In conclusion, I’d say that “Beast” is a high-quality, realistic film with just the right amount of drama and action.