RE:BORN (2016)
A relentless Japanese action film built around one of cinema's most brutal and authentic close-quarters combat systems.
RE:BORN - Movie Information
- Original Title: RE:BORN
- Release Year: 2016
- Directed by: Yuji Shimomura
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Action, Crime
- Age Rating (US): NR
- Runtime: 1h 41m
- Original Language: Japanese
- Spoken Languages: Japanese, English
- Release Date (Theatrical): September 24, 2016 (United States - NR)
- Alternative Titles: Re Born (US), 重生之鬼 (TW), 重生(2016) (HK), Re: Born (ES), RE:BORN リボーン (JP), 부활 (KR)
- Production Companies: U'Den Flame Works
- Production Countries: Japan
RE:BORN - Plot
A former special forces operative struggling to contain the destructive impulses of his past goes on a rampage against a squad of ruthless assassins.
RE:BORN - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see the Zero Range Combat system in action:
Zero Range Combat
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RE:BORN - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Yuji Shimomura
Main Cast
- Tak Sakaguchi
- Yura Kondo
- Takumi Saitoh
- Mariko Shinoda
- Hitomi Hasebe
- Masanori Mimoto
- Makoto Sakaguchi
- Hiroko Yashiki
- Orson Mochizuki
- Kenta
Writers
- Tak Sakaguchi
- Benio Saeki
- Sion Sono
Producers
- Shinichi Fujita
- Midori Inoue
RE:BORN - FAQs
What is RE:BORN about?
RE:BORN follows Toshiro Kuroda, a former special forces operative trying to live a quiet life, who is dragged back into violence when a squad of elite assassins targets him and those he cares about. The film is celebrated for its raw, close-quarters combat choreography and intense action sequences.
What fighting style is used in RE:BORN?
RE:BORN showcases Zero Range Combat, a real close-quarters fighting system developed by Tak Sakaguchi and his trainer. The style emphasizes brutal efficiency at extremely short distances, blending knife work, grappling, and strikes. It is widely regarded as one of the most distinctive and authentic combat systems ever filmed in Japanese action cinema.
Who stars in RE:BORN?
RE:BORN stars Tak Sakaguchi as Toshiro Kuroda, alongside Yura Kondo, Takumi Saitoh, Mariko Shinoda, Hitomi Hasebe, Masanori Mimoto, Makoto Sakaguchi, Hiroko Yashiki, Orson Mochizuki, and Kenta. Tak Sakaguchi also co-wrote the screenplay and developed the film's signature combat system.
Where can I stream RE:BORN?
RE:BORN is available to stream on Shudder, AMC+, and Philo. It can also be watched for free with ads on Tubi TV, or borrowed via Hoopla. Rental and purchase options are available on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home.
Who directed RE:BORN?
RE:BORN was directed by Yuji Shimomura, a Japanese filmmaker and stunt choreographer known for his work on action-heavy productions. Shimomura also served as one of the film's editors, giving him close creative control over the pacing and presentation of the combat sequences.
Is RE:BORN based on a true story?
RE:BORN is not based on a true story. It is an original action film built around the Zero Range Combat system developed by lead actor and co-writer Tak Sakaguchi. While the fighting techniques are real and practiced, the narrative of a former operative hunted by assassins is entirely fictional.
What is the runtime and age rating for RE:BORN?
RE:BORN runs for 101 minutes and carries a Not Rated (NR) classification in the United States. Given its graphic and relentless close-quarters violence, the film is best suited for mature audiences who appreciate intense, uncompromising action cinema.
What movies are similar to RE:BORN?
Fans of RE:BORN may enjoy Lucky Number Slevin, The Professional, and Asura: The City of Madness for their sharp action and morally complex protagonists. For similar Japanese action energy, Super Crazy and Sky Hunter offer comparable intensity. Sniper: Ultimate Kill also shares the film's special-ops atmosphere.
More About RE:BORN
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