Filipino Action Stars And Their Iconic Fighting Styles
Filipino action stars have left an indelible mark on the global stage, captivating audiences with their thrilling performances and unparalleled martial prowess. In this exploration, we delve into the world of these cinematic warriors, unraveling the distinct fighting styles that have defined the legacy of Filipino action stars.
1. Eddie Garcia
Eddie Garcia, the legendary Filipino actor and director, was known for his versatility in portraying various roles, including action-packed characters. While he wasn’t formally trained in martial arts, Garcia brought a unique and realistic fighting style to his action roles. He was really more of an anti-hero than a pure hero.
Eddie Garcia’s commanding physical presence was key to his fighting style. His tall stature and well-built physique allowed him to dominate scenes, conveying a sense of strength and authority.
Unlike some stylized action stars, Garcia’s fight scenes were often characterized by a raw and realistic approach. He focused on making his actions believable, emphasizing practicality over flashy maneuvers. Undoubtedly, he’s one of the best Filipino action stars to have ever lived.
2. Fernando Poe Jr.
Fernando Poe Jr. is without a doubt the most well-known in this list of Filipino action stars. Often referred to as “FPJ” or the “King of Philippine Cinema,” was renowned for his iconic roles in action films. His on-screen fighting style reflected a unique blend of classic Filipino martial arts, street-smart brawling, and a charismatic presence.
Also, FPJ often incorporated elements of Arnis and Eskrima, traditional Filipino martial arts, into his fight scenes. These arts involve the use of sticks, knives, and empty-hand techniques. His proficiency in these martial arts was evident in the fluidity and authenticity of his on-screen movements.
In addition, FPJ’s fighting style was often associated with his heroic on-screen persona. He portrayed characters who fought for justice and defended the marginalized, and his fighting style reflected the nobility and determination of these roles.
READ: Arnis: The Filipino Martial Art that Defeated Ferdinand Magellan
3. Lito Lapid
Lito Lapid, one of the prominent Filipino action stars and politicians, is also known for his roles in action films. His on-screen fighting style reflects a combination of traditional martial arts, street fighting, and a distinctive ruggedness.
The thing is, Lito Lapid has a background in martial arts, particularly Wushu, which is a Chinese martial art that emphasizes both hand and weapon forms. This influence is often evident in his on-screen performances, where he incorporates Wushu techniques into his fight scenes.
Furthermore, Lapid’s fighting style often includes elements of street fighting, emphasizing practical and straightforward techniques. This realism adds a gritty and relatable quality to his action sequences, connecting with audiences who appreciate more down-to-earth portrayals of combat.
4. Jun Aristorenas
Jun Aristorenas, a Filipino actor and martial artist, was a notable figure in the action film genre during the 1960s and 1970s. His fighting style, like many action stars of his era, reflected a mix of traditional martial arts, particularly Arnis, as well as street-fighting elements.
Aristorenas was proficient in Arnis, a traditional Filipino martial art that focuses on stick and knife fighting, as well as empty-hand techniques. This influence was often evident in his fight scenes, where he seamlessly incorporated Arnis movements into the choreography.
Similar to other action stars of his time, Aristorenas demonstrated versatility in wielding various weapons. Whether it was sticks, knives, or improvised objects, he showcased skill and adaptability in using these weapons during fight sequences.
5. Tony Ferrer
Tony Ferrer, known as the “James Bond of the Philippines,” was a legendary Filipino actor who made significant contributions to the action film genre.
Also, Ferrer’s filmography includes a wide range of action roles, showcasing his versatility as an actor. From spy thrillers to crime dramas, his ability to adapt his fighting style to different genres added depth to his on-screen characters. Like many other action stars, Ferrer portrayed heroic characters who fought for justice and defended the oppressed.
Honorable Mention- Coco Martin
Coco Martin’s fighting style is a mix of martial arts, acrobatics, and improvisation. He has trained in kickboxing, arnis, and MMA. His fight scenes often feature acrobatic moves and creative use of weapons and the environment.
In the TV series FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano, Martin’s character, Cardo Dalisay, is often seen fighting large groups of enemies at once. He uses his agility and speed to dodge their attacks, and he often uses improvised weapons to take them down.
Indeed, the fighting styles of these Filipino action stars transcend mere choreography; they represent a cultural heritage, an artistic expression, and a source of pride for a nation that continues to celebrate the resilience and heroism of its cinematic warriors. The legacies of these stars live on, influencing the evolving landscape of action cinema and ensuring that the spirit of Filipino martial arts storytelling remains vibrant and vital.
