Our first look into the world of DTV (Direct-to-Video) action, as well as our first film starring modern action hero Scott Adkins, who is most widely known for his role as Boyka in the Undisputed series and his scene-stealing performance as Killa Harkan in John Wick: Chapter 4.

Released in 2013 as a sequel (in characters only) to 2009’s Ninja, Ninja: Shadow of a Tear is a prime example of the best that DTV action has to offer, in-part due to the martial arts backgrounds of its core cast. It’s also a strong representation of how action cinema continues to transcend nationalities and cultures with its international cast and crew, from its Israeli-born director, to its British star, to its Swedish fight choreographer, to its Thai crew. Despite not featuring any actual ninja-based action, the film’s fast, intense fight scenes are considered to be a high point in the careers of all involved.

For many, DTV movies rarely escape the shadow of their low budgets and B-movie nature, but action die-hards know it is often a haven for some of the best contemporary action. The frequent collaborations between Adkins and director Isaac Florentine continue to defy expectations by delivering high quality action and intricate choreography on limited budgets and ultra-tight shooting schedules.