Introduction
Hollywood is gearing up for a new action hero, and Martis (2025) might just be the next John Wick or Extraction. Starring Henry Golding (Snake Eyes, The Gentlemen) in his first full-fledged action lead, this high-octane thriller is already generating buzz for its brutal fight choreography and globe-hopping espionage plot.
Directed by Chad Stahelski (the John Wick series) and produced by 87North (Nobody, Atomic Blonde), Martis is shaping up to be 2025’s must-see action spectacle.
1. The Story: What Is Martis About?
Official Plot Synopsis
Martis follows Darius Cole (Henry Golding), a former elite operative who faked his death to escape his violent past. But when a shadowy organization kidnaps his daughter, he’s forced to unleash his deadliest skills—under the codename “Martis” (Latin for “warrior”)—to tear through a criminal empire spanning Jakarta, Berlin, and Mexico City.
Key Themes & Influences
- Redemption vs. Rage – Can a killer ever truly leave bloodshed behind?
- Global Espionage – Think Bourne meets The Raid.
- Relentless Action – Stahelski promises “no CGI, just real stunts.”
2. Cast & Crew: Who’s Involved?
Confirmed Cast
- Henry Golding (Crazy Rich Asians) as Darius Cole / Martis
- Jodie Comer (Killing Eve) as Lena Voss, a rogue agent with her own agenda
- Iko Uwais (The Raid) as The Wolf, the film’s primary antagonist
- Tony Jaa (Ong-Bak) in a surprise cameo role
Behind the Scenes
- Director: Chad Stahelski (John Wick 1-4)
- Fight Choreography: Tim Man (The Night Comes for Us)
- Cinematography: Dan Laustsen (John Wick, The Shape of Water)
3. Why Martis Could Be 2025’s Best Action Movie
1. Henry Golding’s Action Debut
Golding trained 6 months in Kali, Muay Thai, and tactical gunplay—early footage shows him performing 90% of his stunts.
2. Next-Level Fight Scenes
- A one-take nightclub brawl (like John Wick, but with machetes).
- A highway chase with motorcycles vs. armored trucks.
- Final fight in a collapsing skyscraper.
3. A Fresh Take on the “One-Man Army” Trope
Unlike John Wick, Martis focuses on a father’s desperation, not revenge.
4. Early Buzz & Predictions
From Test Screenings:
- *”Golding is a revelation—this is his Keanu in Matrix moment.”
- “The action is even more brutal than John Wick.”
- “Iko Uwais steals every scene.”
Box Office Potential
- Likely $200M+ worldwide if marketed well.
- Could launch a new action franchise.
5. Final Verdict: Will Martis Be a Hit?
Why It Will Succeed
✔ Stahelski’s track record with action.
✔ Golding’s star power + fighting skills.
✔ A story that balances heart and havoc.
Potential Risks
❌ Too similar to John Wick?
❌ Can Golding carry a blockbuster alone?
Early Rating Prediction: 8.5/10
If the action delivers, Martis could be the birth of a new action icon.
Are You Excited?
Who would win in a fight—Martis or John Wick? Drop your thoughts below!