To co-incide with the UK release of PRIEST, we’ve reviewed the top 6 kick-ass men (and one woman) of the cloth. Here, we count done the magnificent seven to also tie in with our excellent FB competition for PRIEST 3D which we’re also running at the moment where you can win an ultra exclusive PRIEST robe. All that you have to do is go on over to our Facebook page and ‘Like us’ or follow us by the end of the week to be in the draw.
Now, onto that trump card list!
PRIEST IN PRIEST 3D (2011)
Paul Bettany excels in this super entertaining and epic sci-fi, horror, fantasy, vampire, western movie which is set in a post-apocalyptic, alternative-reality! And that’s not even mentioning the Korean comic book series PRIEST is based on.
Here we focus on Bettany’s brutal performance as the titular Warrior Priest. He is such an amazing fighter and just a generally cool hero that he might even be worth worshipping himself!
CAINE IN KUNG FU (1972)
Perhaps the inspiration behind the Kung Fu elements of PRIEST comes from the TV series, Kung Fu.
Despite the initial controversy over his appointment (as a white actor) as Kwai Chang Caine, David Carradine was hugely popular in the role, being nominated for an Emmy and a Golden Globe Award for his role in this 1972 TV movie and subsequent TV series.
David’s younger half brother, Keith also starred in the first season of this hit TV series as Kwai Chang Caine, making the series a family affair. David himself went on to star as Bill in Taratino’s KILL BILL which leads us nicely onto…
PAI MEI IN KILL BILL 2 (2004)
Quentin Tarantino had long been a fan of martial arts master Chian Hui Lui and he finally found the perfect role for him as Pai Mei in his kick-ass revenge tale KILL BILL.
Prior to pursuing his love for martial arts Chia Hui Lui was… wait for it… a shipping clerk! – A million miles away from his start studded life as a martial arts star / instructor. He plays Pai Mei as arguably the ultimate and unforgettable sensei.
THE MONK WITH NO NAME IN BULLETPROOF MONK (2003)
Tying in nicely with the comic book theme promoted by PRIEST is Monk with no name.
Chased across the world protecting an ancient scroll, the monk with no name only has 60 years of invincibility before having to pass it onto the person he deems worthy; in this case, a street kid named Gar. With 60 years of scroll protection under his belt and some kick-ass Nazi fighting scenes the monk with no name definitely deserves some recognition.
Dubbed the ‘most terrifying film of its time’ we couldn’t possibly ignore the work of Max von Sydow (aka Father Merrin) in this frightening battle between God and the Devil.
Despite little to mention in terms of physical combat, this petrifying blockbuster is the one to beat when it comes to sheer unadulterated demonic terror!
No-one can question Father Merrin’s commitment to the faith as he tries to rid Regan MacNeil of the horrors that torment her and her family. He is one kick-ass priest!
FRIAR TUCK IN ROBIN HOOD: PRINCE OF THIEVES (1991)
A kick-ass man of the cloth who has taken the family circuit by storm is Michael McShane as Friar Tuck. We couldn’t possibly forget this family classic, and let’s focus on the 1991 blockbuster.
Despite not having many combat moments, Michael McShane’s Friar Tuck should receive some credit at least for standing up to the evil Bishop. Let’s just say that when push comes to shove. Push it was!
And of course we didn’t want the ladies to feel left out, so here is one for all you gorgeous gals who have made it this far through the feature…
JOAN OF ARC IN THE MESSENGER (1999)
We couldn’t let the ladies down and top of the female faith pile it’s Joan of Arc, played by Milla Jovovich in this 1999 film from Luc Besson.
Hosting everything from terrifying battle scenes to heresy and martyrdom in this film. Joan of Arc should be noted for their contribution to combat, courage and faith.
PRIEST is playing in cinemas in the UK now.
