Java Ardente

A Muslim detective teams with an American (Kellan Lutz) posing as a graduate student to find the man (Mickey Rourke) behind a series of deadly terrorist bombings in Indonesia.

Although this seems in some ways to be an inferior-grade "Bourne" film, it has plenty to offer: a fresh lead actor, a great villain (Rourke, as a "klepto-terrorist") and all the action you expect from such a film -- explosions, gun fights and car crashes.

My biggest issues were not really with the film itself (which I thought was pretty good), but more technical matters. The DVD/BD seems to have not had the volume synced properly (conversations are too quiet, action too loud) and the subtitles are hard to read -- both because they are small, and also because they leave the screen too quickly. I would have enjoyed the film much more if these problems were corrected.

After Mickey Rourke gave his deservedly highly praised performance in "The Wrestler", I thought that from that point on, his career would be in a permanent rebound. But just a few years later, Rourke is back making straight to DVD movies, "Java Heat" being one of them. In fairness, this particular straight to DVD movie is nowhere as bad as some of Rourke's past efforts in the genre. Some of the action sequences aren't bad, and we are given an interesting look in many corners of Indonesia. However, the movie is both too long and too slow for the most part - it should have been tightened during the scripting stage. And Rourke doesn't come across very well, with his puffy face and his dialogue often spoken in a mumble that makes it hard to understand what he's saying at times. From this movie, I now think that the remainder of Rourke's career will be stuck in the direct to DVD market and that no one will give him another chance at something better. Too bad.

Another movie from far east, Indonesia.

Clearly this is an action movie, if you like action, this movie could be your weekend options. Quite entertaining. A lot of action in there.

Tells the story of a special forces anti-terrorism cooperation with an American citizen solving terrorism cases.

Speaking of the actors may not be so well known, but their acting is quite good.

In the end, the film is worth watching. presents the story from the largest Muslim country in the world. Where many terrorists were arrested and prosecuted.

From 1 to 10 I give 6.5

"Java Heat" unfolds as a visually striking thriller set amidst the dynamic landscape of Indonesia, weaving together the contrasting elements of rickshaws, machine guns, and a cast led by Mickey Rourke and Kellan Lutz. Against the backdrop of the country boasting the world's largest Muslim population, the film seeks to engage viewers not only in its action-packed narrative but also in an anthropological exploration of Indonesian culture.

Writers Conor and Rob Allyn, who maintain a connection with Java, inject a sense of authenticity into the film, particularly through the portrayal of Javanese characters like Ario Bayu. This allows the audience to witness credible glimpses into local customs, providing a distinctive layer to the storyline. However, the film's Achilles' heel lies in its portrayal of the protagonist, Jake, played by Kellan Lutz, who grapples with breaking free from the shackles of dismissive stereotypes.

As the narrative unfolds, Jake emerges as a resilient yet underestimated figure, weathering a terrorist attack with a physical fortitude depicted almost as impervious armor. The script, however, lingers on the initial perception of Jake as a fortunate simpleton, preventing Lutz from fully distancing himself from his past roles. The film's attempt to carve a more compelling character faces resistance from the locals, who dismissively label him as the stereotypical American "Rambo."

While Mickey Rourke injects sporadic vibrancy into the storyline, the true standout is Ario Bayu, delivering a thoughtful and nuanced performance as a principled detective navigating the complexities of crime and justice. Regrettably, Lutz's performance tends towards monotony, relying excessively on his physical prowess. Gratuitous scenes featuring a sweaty, shirtless workout and a nude massage, while showcasing Lutz's imposing physical presence, contribute little to character development.

"Java Heat" earns commendation for its captivating portrayal of Indonesian culture, but it stumbles in creating a truly engaging narrative. The film's 5/10 score reflects its praiseworthy efforts to explore cultural nuances but laments missed opportunities to transcend formulaic plotlines. Lutz's on-screen presence, though physically imposing, fails to inject the depth required to elevate the film beyond its predictable action-thriller trajectory. Moments of vibrancy are overshadowed by the overarching challenge of infusing Lutz's role with the substance needed to resonate with the audience on a more profound level.

#JavaHeatCulturalThriller.

I first saw JAVA HEAT at a local action movie festival back in May of 2013. I had never heard of it and went to see it to help support the festival and raise money for a local charity. I wasn't expecting much as most of the movies in this festival had been no great shakes. All action and nothing else. This suited the fans just fine but it left me with a sprained wrist from checking my watch so often. However I came out of JAVA HEAT pleasantly surprised. Not only was I engaged throughout but I got to see lots of local Indonesian culture and more than capable performances from Indonesian actors Ario Bayu and Atiquah Hasiholan.

Mickey Rourke as the international villain (in addition to English he speaks French, Arabic & Javanese) is a delight to watch and to root against. He's clearly enjoying himself as much as Javier Bardem did in SKYFALL. While he-man Kellan Lutz is the weak link in the chain, he is more than adequate to the task at hand (resembling a cross between Christopher Reeve and a young Arnold Schwarzenegger) and he looks great in the buff. There's also a brief moment that makes fun of him having been in TWILIGHT. The film proved so popular that the theater brought it back for a one week run shortly after the festival.

JAVA HEAT is a throwback to the exotic B movie fare of yore like MACAO or SIROCCO only retooled for the 21st century with a little nudity, occasional bursts of graphic violence, and a lot of action set pieces. It has no aspirations of being anything other than what it is, an entertaining way to fill 100 minutes of your time. The use of split screen ala Brian De Palma (think CARRIE) is both retro and put to good use. The movie is technically accomplished in a no-nonsense way with crisp editing, solid photography and effective use of traditional and contemporary music.

The story is familiar but effective. A young American (Lutz) who is not what he claims to be joins forces with a local police lieutenant (Bayu) to try and solve the assassination of a female member of Indonesian royalty (Hasiholan). Things quickly get complicated with payoffs, cover-ups, and a plan to steal the royal treasury thrown into the mix and all masterminded by uber-villain Rourke. The majority of movies are made with nothing more than entertainment in mind and if you enjoy an action flick with an exotic locale and a budget well under $100 million, then JAVA HEAT will more than fill the bill...For more reviews visit The Capsule Critic.