Before The Crow became a huge part of Brandon Lee’s legacy, Rapid Fire was released in 1992 directed by Dwight H. Little and gives action fans a real taste of just how talented Brandon Lee was. This is a fantastic classic action film that contains great martial arts, gun fights and a solid crime thriller plot. This is fast-paced, violent and has some amazing fight scenes that are still great over thirty years later.
Jake Lo played by Brandon Lee is an art student who witnesses a murder involving a powerful drug lord and gets caught in the crossfire between the FBI and a dangerous criminal organisation. Jake teams up with Chicago detective Mace Ryan (Powers Boothe) to put an end to those responsible for this. This is a simple plot but that isn’t a bad thing. The film knows what it wants to be and doesn’t waste any time getting started.
Brandon Lee is the real star of the show here. He puts in an amazing performance in this film. He has a great screen presence, some attitude and some incredible martial arts skills. One of the best things about Brandon Lee’s performance is that he doesn’t seem to be trying to live up to his father’s reputation. He adds his own character to the role, combining some great humour and charm along with some incredible fighting skills. It’s a shame we never got to see just how far his career could have gone.
Once the action starts this film really shines. The fight choreography is incredible and Brandon Lee shows off his skills with some quick punches, kicks and some incredible close combat fighting. The fight in the kitchen is a real highlight. The fight uses the environment brilliantly and Brandon Lee takes on multiple opponents. These fight scenes are full of energy and unlike some action films, these fight scenes have a nice impact. Brandon Lee makes it seem so easy.
Powers Boothe also provides a great performance. He plays Mace Ryan and the chemistry between him and Brandon Lee is great. This gives the film a great buddy cop vibe without it being too comedic. The rest of the cast are great and the director, Dwight H. Little (who previously gave us the Steven Seagal action film Marked for Death) keeps the film moving at a great pace. There are plenty of gun fights, explosions and martial arts. The film rarely slows down and becomes boring.
The final act is where this film really shines. All the build up leads to an action-packed final fight. This gives Brandon Lee another chance to show off how good he was. The final fight is incredible showing off his speed, skill and physical ability.
Whilst this film may not have been as recognised as some of the other action films from the early 90s, it really should be. It has a great leading man, incredible fight choreography, a reliable supporting cast and plenty of action. This is one of Brandon Lee’s best performances and shows just how much potential he had.
If you’re a fan of classic martial arts films and haven’t seen this then you’re missing out. This is a great action film and deserves more love.
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