“American Ninja” is a martial arts action film directed by Sam Firstenberg and produced by Cannon Group, featuring the dynamic duo of Michael Dudikoff and Steve James. The film follows Joe Armstrong (Dudikoff), a U.S. Army soldier stationed in the Philippines, who possesses extraordinary martial arts skills. As a member of a covert military unit, Armstrong is tasked with training soldiers and executing secret missions.

When terrorists kidnap a general’s daughter, threatening chaos in the region, Armstrong teams up with his charismatic partner, Curtis Jackson (James). Utilizing his ninja training and combat prowess, Armstrong embarks on a mission to rescue the girl and thwart the terrorists’ plans.

Renowned for its action-packed sequences and impressive martial arts choreography, “American Ninja” blends elements of ninja lore with military action, embodying the quintessential tropes of 1980s action films. Dudikoff’s portrayal of the titular American Ninja, alongside James’ spirited performance, injects charisma and energy into the narrative.

The film has since achieved cult status, celebrated for its entertaining mix of martial arts action and over-the-top storytelling, making it a standout entry in the action genre of the mid-1980s. With its memorable fight scenes and engaging characters, “American Ninja” remains a beloved classic among fans of martial arts cinema.