Sidekicks is a Martial Arts coming-of-age film directed by Aaron Norris. Lou Illar and Galen Thompson wrote the script. Triumph Films released it to theaters.
Barry Gabrewski (Jonathan Brandis) is living with his single dad, Jerry (Beau Bridges). Because of his health issue, he is constantly targeted by his high school bully, Randy Cellini (John Buchanan). He daydreams of being the sidekick of his hero, Chuck Norris (Chuck Norris). After being embarrassed in front of his crush, Lauren (Danica McKellar), his teacher, Noreen Chan (Julia Nickson-Soul), suggests that her uncle, Mr. Lee (Mako), is willing to teach him martial arts. Barry decides to learn, even though Randy’s Karate teacher, Mr. Stone (Joe Piscopo), wants to dominate a local tournament.
Karate Kid inspired a lot of knock-offs, but this one is the best. Not only does it have an impressive cast, but it also has some things that separate it. Barry is a lost soul, but his daydreams disrupt his daily life, even though he fantasizes about helping Chuck Norris save the day.
It is a shame that this one did not do well at the box office, because it is actually enjoyable. Chuck Norris simply plays parodies of his various roles. We see Missing In Action, Lone Wolf McQuade, The Octagon, Hitman, and even Hayes Cooper from Walker, Texas Ranger, has a nod. It made for a good time for those of us who have been watching Norris for years.
The cast also does fantastically, without exception. The late-great Brandis is excellent as the lead, helping us connect to the fanboy with struggles and a dream of overcoming his health issues. I applaud his appearance in this movie and how he appears relatable to any young man with a hero. Besides Norris himself, Mako, gone too soon, is the breakout role as the mentor who wants to help a troubled kid. He is very missed by three generations. He was a frequent collaborator with Norris, appearing in Walker, Texas Ranger, and a few films with the action star.
I also want to give a nod to Alan Silvestri. He is the talented composer behind so many incredible film scores like Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Back to the Future, and more. He also does an excellent job here. The music definitely connects you to the plot.
Fans of Chuck Norris will adore this movie, but I also think the casual viewer would enjoy it as well. It has a relatable hero, a grand cast, and, of course, nods to Norris as a pop culture icon.
Bottom line, Sidekicks is an excellent film. It has an incredible cast, but Chuck Norris alone makes it work the price of admission.
PARENTAL CONCERNS: Some foul language, Violence, Minor crude humor
FAVORITE QUOTE: If that’s true, kid, you have less brains than a woodpecker on an aluminum telephone pole.
Check out the trailer below:
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