Iko Uwais is set to lead the Indonesian action film 'Warrior,' reuniting him with the Silat fighting style that defined his early career. The story follows a former Silat practitioner emerging from prison to confront a Malaysian crime syndicate threatening his community in Jakarta. Production is scheduled to begin this summer under director John Radel.
Iko Uwais, known internationally for the 'Raid' franchise, will star in 'Warrior' (Pendekar), a new Indonesian action thriller. The film marks his return to Silat-based combat, the martial arts style that propelled him to fame. Directed by cinematographer John Radel in his solo directorial debut, the project draws on Radel's prior collaborations with Uwais on four films, including upcoming 'Warpath' with Scott Adkins.
The plot centers on a former elite Silat practitioner who leaves prison intent on abandoning his violent history. This plan unravels when a Malaysian crime syndicate encroaches on his neighborhood, targeting those close to him and seizing local control. The protagonist becomes the community's defender, leading to escalating conflicts across Jakarta's markets, alleys, and rooftops.
Production will commence this summer entirely in Indonesia, utilizing local locations, crews, and emerging martial arts talent. On the production team, Delon Tio of Nation Pictures—behind films like the Mo Brothers' 'Macabre'—joins forces with Erika North and Nick North of Yeti Entertainment, and Mike Leeder of Red Packet Media. Uwais serves as executive producer through his new Uwais Pictures label, alongside Ryan Santoso. International sales are handled by K-Movie Entertainment.
This film emerges from a joint venture between Asia Media Alliance Group and Nation Pictures, aimed at Southeast Asian genre films for global audiences, with more action and horror projects anticipated soon. Uwais is represented by Brett Norensberg at Gersh and Mike Staudt at Vault Entertainment.