The Raid (2012) (The Raid: Redemption) is an adrenaline-fueled Indonesian action thriller directed by Gareth Evans, starring Iko Uwais in a career-defining role. Known for its intense, bone-crunching fight choreography, the film introduced the world to Silat, Indonesiaโs brutal and highly effective martial art, redefining modern action cinema.
The story follows Rama (Iko Uwais), a rookie SWAT officer, as he joins an elite team on a dangerous mission: infiltrate a 30-story apartment complex controlled by the ruthless crime lord Tama Riyadi (Ray Sahetapy). However, when their cover is blown, the officers find themselves trapped inside the building, forced to fight their way through waves of deadly gangsters and mercenaries in a relentless battle for survival.
What sets The Raid apart is its non-stop action and masterful fight choreography by Iko Uwais and Yayan Ruhian. The film features brutal hand-to-hand combat, knife fights, and tactical gunplay, with a raw and realistic approach that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. The hallway fights, stairwell battles, and the final showdown against "Mad Dog" (Yayan Ruhian) are some of the most iconic sequences in modern action cinema.
Released in 2012, The Raid received universal acclaim for its groundbreaking action, relentless pacing, and visceral intensity, earning a cult following worldwide. It paved the way for its equally acclaimed sequel, The Raid 2 (2014), and cemented Iko Uwais as one of the top martial arts stars of his generation. If you're an action fan, this is a must-watch.
