With this film coming out on home video and ‘Warrior’ in theaters now, do you think the mixed martial arts genre is getting a bigger profile now in the film world? Every one of these actors can be a lead in their own martial arts or action film. With everyone else, Dean Geyer has been making a living acting and so has Scott Epstein and Alex Meraz.
Even though Todd had not acted before, he was so much the character organically, that it was almost like the role was written for him. MJW: Aside from (mixed martial artist) Todd Duffee, who did a great job on his first film, most of the cast had worked on other films before. I’ve always looked at every layer of filmmaking, so directing felt natural to me. I’ve always approach moviemaking, even when I’m acting, from the standpoint of a producer/ director. For me, I really got to use a lot of my faculties. Directing is such a rewarding experience. MJW: To be honest with you, I can’t think of any lows. Having completed your first film, what are the joys and challenges of directing? We have some of the best people from the sport in our film. I believe ‘Warrior’ is more a story about two brothers and a family drama, which I hear is excellent.
#Never back down michael jai white movie#
If there was another movie that dealt with subject matter the way we do it, I would admit that. I don’t say this out of ego, but it’s a fact. It will be the best mixed martial arts film you’ve seen. Michael Jai White: Because there’s nothing like it. What’s a good reason to pick up ‘ Never Back Down 2?’
#Never back down michael jai white series#
In speaking with exclusively, White spoke about making this film, his upcoming TV series with Tasha Smith, and finding time to be with his family amongst his busy schedule. When their mentor gets set-up by some bad cops, the young men band together to root out a traitor in their midst.įor White, who is an accomplished martial artist with seven black belts and also known for his roles in ‘ Spawn,’ the Tyler Perry films ‘ Why Did I Get Married? and its sequel, and the comedy ‘ Black Dynamite,’ this gives him an opportunity to showcase more than just his acting skills.
Teaching them about much more than fighting, Case prepares the young men for a competition called the Beatdown, run by local college kid and fight impresario Max (Evan Peters). a passion for the “savage science” and quickly become loyal to their unorthodox trainer, Case ( Michael Jai White), a brilliant ex-UFC Champion down on his own luck. Out on home video (Blu-ray, DVD) is Michael Jai White’s directorial debut, ‘ Never Back Down 2: The Beatdown,’ the sequel to the 2008 mixed martial arts film.Įx-boxer Zack ( Alex Meraz), talented MMA fighter Tim ( Todd Duffee), bullied record store clerk Justin ( Scott Epstein), and wrestler Mike ( Dean Geyer) come from various backgrounds, but they all share one thing in common….