I recently sat down for an interview with Gareth Evans, the director of “The Raid: Redemption” and “The Raid 2: Berandal”, and Iko Uwais, star of both films at the bay area Fairmont Hotel.
This was in promotion of the international release of “The Raid 2: Berendal“, the sequel to the first “The Raid” film. If you have no clue what I’m talking about, you’ve been living in a cave. But, then again, a couple years back, folks were badgering me to watch “The Raid: Redemption” at the nearest theater possible. I was like “Whatdafawk you talking about?” I have since came out of my own cave, and made up for it, watched the first film about three times already.
Anyways, “Raid 2” has already been hailed by critics at Sundance for being “one of the greatest action films”. And, the first “Raid” is already heading for an American remake with rumors Chris Hemsworth and his brother participating. This film series is making history quick.
I mean, check out this bloody, kick-ass red band trailer for “The Raid 2: Berandal”, and tell me if your adrenaline is not rushing through your veins, after watching it:
Iko Kuwais was badass of the week, at one time. He prob will regain the title again this year, at least until the 2nd sequel to “The Raid”.
Watch my interview with Gareth and Iko below. Gareth is such a nice guy who loves to talk (eloquently, mind you): he spoke of everything about his dislike of the PG13-fication of violence in films, how he needs to be more experienced before transcending genres, and his support for the American remake of “The Raid”. Iko is a quiet fellow but once you get him talking, he’s all giggles and fun. Here’s two Instagram perspectives of (sad, but social networking relevant) selfies I did with the two: One and Two.
Camera work by Bo! Campbell of our Mind.Erase.Media, and Jeff Luzanga (a.k.a. Desciple) of Torrid Productions. Special thanks to Ed Moy and publicist Karen Larsen of Larsen Associates for setting this up! “Raid 2: Berandal” comes out this March 28. Check out your local listings and watch it at a theater near you.