Seized

Seized (2020): A Brutal and Efficient Martial Arts Action Thriller

Seized (2020), directed by Isaac Florentine, is a lean, fast-paced action thriller that showcases the physical talents of martial arts star Scott Adkins. Known for his work in action-heavy films, Florentine crafts a straightforward revenge-rescue narrative that thrives on kinetic fight sequences and no-nonsense storytelling. While it may not break new ground in terms of plot, Seized delivers exactly what fans of the genre expect—tight choreography, relentless pacing, and a charismatic lead.

The story follows Nero, a former special forces operative trying to live a quiet life in Mexico with his teenage son. That peace is shattered when masked men invade his home and abduct his son. Nero soon receives a call from a mysterious cartel boss named Mzamo, who forces him into a deadly mission: eliminate multiple rival crime syndicates in one day, or his son will die. With no choice, Nero is “seized” by circumstance and launches into a violent spree of calculated assassinations, all while being monitored via a body camera.

Scott Adkins, in the lead role, brings his usual physical prowess to the screen. His martial arts skills are on full display, with extended hand-to-hand combat sequences that are sharp, fast, and precise. What sets Adkins apart from many modern action stars is his ability to perform his own stunts and deliver believable, grounded combat. Each fight in Seized is brutal yet fluid, with a focus on tactical realism that includes both striking and grappling techniques, as well as impressive gunplay.

Opposite Adkins, Mario Van Peebles plays Mzamo, the villain orchestrating the mayhem. His performance adds a layer of flair and menace to the film. Mzamo isn’t just a one-note antagonist—he’s charismatic, calm, and almost philosophical at times, making his interactions with Nero intriguing. The dynamic between the two men—one a reluctant killer, the other a manipulative puppet master—gives the film some much-needed dramatic weight.

The plot is intentionally simple, functioning more as a framework to support the action. While character development is minimal and dialogue occasionally borders on cliché, the film wisely focuses on momentum. The runtime is a tight 85 minutes, ensuring there’s little downtime between each explosive set piece. The structure almost mimics a video game: mission briefings, infiltration, combat, escape—then repeat, each sequence escalating in danger.

Visually, the film does well within its budget. The cinematography emphasizes clarity and intensity during action scenes, avoiding the shaky-cam effect that plagues many lower-budget productions. Isaac Florentine’s experience as an action director is evident in how efficiently the film is shot and edited, making each blow feel impactful.

In conclusion, Seized is not a film that tries to be more than what it is. It is a compact, hard-hitting action thriller that thrives on its lead actor’s physical capabilities and a simple but effective premise. For fans of Scott Adkins or anyone looking for an adrenaline-fueled martial arts film with a clear goal and satisfying payoff, Seized delivers the goods with unapologetic intensity.