Ok I have never really been the sporting type, never really a fan of “the Fitba’” or “The Rugger”. I kind prefered the alternative sports like Skateboardin’, snowboardin’, Ice Hockey (although not really alternative, just not very big in this country!!) and now Parkour.

An odd way to start a movie review I hear you say, but as it features quite heavily in this movie I thought I would bring it up. In the same way Ong-Bak showcased the talents of Tony Jaa, France’s Banlieue 13 (District 13) showcases the talents of stuntman turn actor Cyril Raffaelli and co-inventer of Parkour (Free Running) David Belle.

Luc Besson co-wrote this filick with Bibi Naceri who, also has a star in the flick as the main bad guy Taha. The story is set in a decayed Paris in the future where walls have been set up to contain the violence in the district. This sets up the story for non-top action, breath taking stunts and a good showcase of how amazing it is to watch Parkour in action. The film is only 87 minutes, but what an 87 minutes.

I think I just sat with my jaw open the whole flick saying to myself, “naw, thats impossible, they must have sped that up, or must be wire work”, nope, it is at the regular speed and the stunts are performed by the actors without wires, man you got to respect that.

Good story and hopeful the start of a beautiful acting career for both Belle and Raffaelli. Put hem in a movie with Tony Jaa and you may get the greatest action movie of all time!!!

It is worth buying on DVD to see the extras including an in-depth making of and a small doc about Parkour.

Below is a Youtube video of David Belle in action, prepare to be amazed!!

Parkour: ’cause regular running is for P***ies!!

Find out more about Parkour here.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, October 17th, 2006 at 10:28 pm and is filed under Good Movies and TV shows. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.