The Art of Self-Defense

Casey is attacked at random on the street and enlists in a local dojo led by a charismatic and mysterious Sensei in an effort to learn how to defend himself. What he uncovers is a sinister world of fraternity, violence and hypermasculinity and a woman fighting for her place in it.

From SXSW: Audience Award, Sundance: Short Film Grand Jury Prize, and AFI Fest: Audience Award nominated director Riley Stearns! Starring Oscar nominee Jesse Eisenberg, Tribeca Film Fest: Best Actor winner Alessandro Nivola, and British Independent Film Awards: Best Supporting Actress award winner Imogen Poots!

10 / 10! “a beautifully distinctive comedic thriller…a top-notch cast, the movie is as hilarious as it is unpredictable. It emerges as a strong early contender for best film of the year.” (Film Threat)

“something quite special here. Every other minute in this film contains some of the funniest dark comedy I’ve ever seen…is not only a must-see, it’s an easy contender for the best film of the year so far.” (Film Inquiry)