Overview

As Good as Dead is a gritty action thriller centered on Bryant (Michael Jai White), a man living a quiet life in Mexico after a violent past. When he takes a troubled young man under his wing, Bryant’s history as a former special ops soldier is exposed — attracting the attention of dangerous enemies seeking revenge. As the past catches up, he must once again fight for survival, protect his student, and face the ghosts he thought he’d left behind.

Highlights

Michael Jai White’s Commanding Presence: Blends intense physicality with emotional depth, delivering both brutal action and grounded mentorship.

Strong Supporting Cast: Tom Berenger adds veteran gravitas, while Louis Mandylor provides a solid antagonist presence.

Solid Action Sequences: Features realistic martial arts choreography, shootouts, and tactical combat reminiscent of 90s action classics.

Themes of Redemption: Explores mentorship, honor, and the cost of violence, adding layers beyond pure action.

Gritty Tone: Set against the dusty streets of Mexico, the film’s atmosphere reinforces its grounded, old-school style.

Most Memorable Moments

Bryant’s Training Scenes: Showcasing Michael Jai White’s martial arts expertise in sharp, disciplined choreography.

Final Showdown: A fierce, personal confrontation that blends emotion with explosive combat.

Flashbacks to Bryant’s Past: Gradually revealing his secrets and the reasons for his exile.

Mentor-Student Dynamic: The relationship between Bryant and Oscar adds heart and moral contrast to the violence.

Verdict

As Good as Dead delivers exactly what fans of classic action cinema crave — tough heroes, gritty fights, and a story of redemption. Michael Jai White’s charisma and skill elevate a straightforward plot into an engaging and hard-hitting thriller that pays homage to the golden era of martial arts action films.

Rating: 7/10