Bloodsport (film series)

The Bloodsport franchise consists of American martial arts-sports action-thriller installments including two theatrical films and two straight-to-home video sequels. Based on the purported true story experiences of Frank Dux, which have since been called into question, the series centers around the original story written by Sheldon Lettich. The plot involves American characters who compete in underground life-or-death mixed martial arts tournaments, while also competing for the honor of their instructors.

Though Bloodsport was a box office success in 1988, it was initially poorly received critically. It has since earned a significant following with modern-day analysis. Film critics have called the movie Van Damme's "crowning achievement", and "magnum opus"; categorized as one of "the best of the best", Bloodsport has earned its status as a cult classic. While the sequels have experienced mixed levels of success, the 1996 sequel was met with a warm critical response, with praise directed towards its cast namely Daniel Bernhardt's leading role. While it met expectations of the audience with some calling it superior to the original, its following installments were released via home video debut leading deplinishing financial income. Critical reception thereafter had likewise been meager: the 1997 follow-up received mixed reception; the 1999 installment was met with predominantly negative reactions; and the 2017 follow-up was met with praise for its graphic fight scenes, with criticism directed at its script and production values. The franchise as a whole has been a financial success for its associated studios.

The franchise will continue, with a new Bloodsport movie in active development, with Chad Stahelski and David Leitch's studio 87North Productions involved and the duo in early negotiations to serve as co-directors.