PRISONER OF WAR Review: Scott Adkins Breaks Free in a Bone-Crushing WWII Action Epic.
Set during the harrowing Battle of Bataan in a Japanese POW camp in World War II, Prisoner of War is a high-octane martial arts action film that showcases Scott Adkins’ electrifying fighting skills, magnetic charisma, and commanding screen presence. Based on a story conceived by Adkins and adapted into a screenplay by Marc Clebanoff, the film marks another collaboration with director Louis Mandylor, who previously starred alongside Adkins in the action-packed Debt Collectors duology. This time, Mandylor steps behind the camera to deliver a gritty tribute to 1980s Cannon Films, this film channels the gritty, high-octane spirit of 1980s Cannon Films, with clear echoes of Chuck Norris’ Missing in Action 2.
Adkins shines as Wing Commander James Wright, a British RAF officer captured by the Imperial Japanese Army and confined to a merciless prison camp under the iron fist of Lt. Col. Benjiro Ito (Peter Shinkoda). Forced into brutal hand-to-hand combat for the amusement of sadistic guards, testing his resilience and fighting prowess. As Wright fights for survival alongside fellow prisoners like Captain Collins (Donald Cerrone) and Sgt. Villanueva (Michael Copon), Wright crafts a daring escape plan that keeps the tension high. The premise is lean and mean, serving as a perfect stage for Adkins to deliver jaw-dropping action sequences that are the film’s beating heart.
Director Louis Mandylor, working with a tight four-week shooting schedule, infuses Prisoner of War with raw energy and a distinct, visceral style. The fight scenes are a masterclass in choreography—fast, ferocious, and beautifully executed, with Adkins in top form. From bone-crunching punches to lightning-fast kicks, with some grappling judo locks and chokes, even including sword fights, each brawl is a spectacle, delivering the kind of glorious, unapologetic violence that action fans crave. However, the narrative occasionally falters, with a predictable storyline and supporting characters who feel underdeveloped next to Adkins’ towering presence. The escape plot, while engaging, could have used more depth to fully land its emotional weight.
Despite these minor shortcomings, Prisoner of War is a thrilling ode to martial arts cinema and 80s action flicks. Adkins carries the film effortlessly, his star power elevating every scene, while Mandylor’s direction ensures the action never lets up. The modest budget shows in the film’s limited scope, but the team makes every moment count, delivering a commendable addition to the genre.
Available in the US on VOD and in limited theaters via Well Go USA starting September 19, 2025. In the UK, catch it on DVD, Blu-Ray, and digital platforms via Kaleidoscope Home Entertainment from November 10, 2025.
