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Iko Uwais Returns in New Action Thriller “Wings of Dread”
Celebrated for his exceptional skills in martial arts, Iko Uwais is set to thrill audiences once again in the anticipated action thriller, Wings of Dread. This film promises to blend the intense action sequences reminiscent of the acclaimed movie The Raid, in which Uwais played the lead role, with a gripping storyline set inside the confined space of an airplane.
Co-directed by Pengfei Qin, known for his work on Red Cliff, and Ashton Chen from Ip Man 2, who also stars alongside Uwais, the specifics of the plot remain closely guarded. However, initial footage hints that the film will showcase both Uwais and Chen as they utilize their martial arts prowess while navigating dramatic confrontations at 30,000 feet.
Wings of Dread is reported to be the first of several collaborations between Iko Uwais and the streaming service iQIYI, which has expanded its reach across the United States and beyond since 2018. The film, set to premiere on the platform, promises to deliver exhilarating action that fans of the genre are sure to enjoy, presenting the gritty and visceral fight choreography Uwais is known for. The setting within an airplane adds a unique tension, making Uwais’ challenges far more daunting than those faced by iconic characters like John Wick.
Hollywood’s Difficulty in Utilizing Iko Uwais’ Talent
Despite the accolades garnered by The Raid and its sequel, The Raid 2, alongside the success that director Gareth Evans is experiencing with his latest Netflix project, Havoc, Iko Uwais remains an underrated figure in contemporary action cinema. His performances in other critically acclaimed films like The Night Comes for Us and Headshot highlight his talent; however, Hollywood has yet to fully embrace him as a leading action star.
Even with his dynamic on-screen presence and remarkable fighting skills, projects such as Snake Eyes, Mile 22, and the sequel Expend4bles have not provided Uwais with the recognition he rightly deserves. Fans often speculate about ideal roles for him, including a part in the upcoming sequel The Beekeeper 2 starring Jason Statham.
In a significant career shift, Uwais has launched his own production company, Uwais Pictures, with the aim of creating films that replicate the success of local-language hits like The Raid and The Night Comes for Us. His vision includes incorporating structured fight choreography and stunt performance from the early stages of each project.
Among the projects in development is Timur, inspired by a true story of an international hostage situation that occurred in Mapenduma in 1996, overseen by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. This film marks Uwais’ directorial debut, with him expected to star as well. Another upcoming project is Ikatan Darah, which focuses on a former martial arts athlete confronting a network of loan sharks to protect her brother from the dangers of gambling debt.
For more updates on Iko Uwais and his upcoming projects, you can follow @MAActionCinema.
Source
movieweb.com