The Foot Fist Way
Comedic journey of a misguided martial arts instructor.
About The Foot Fist Way
Released: 2006
Platform: Hulu
Rating: R
Run time: 1h 25m
Cast
Danny R. McBride, Mary Jane Bostic, Ben Best, Spencer Moreno, Carlos Lopez IV
The Foot Fist Way
About The Foot Fist Way
The Foot Fist Way is an independent comedy movie released in 2006. It centers on the character Fred Simmons, an irritable and egoistic Tae Kwon Do instructor who sees himself as the king of the dojang. Things turn around when he discovers that his wife Suzie has been unfaithful to him. Lost in self-pity and despair, Fred embarks on a journey to a Tae Kwon Do conference, hoping to meet his hero, B movie action star Chuck "The Truck" Wallace, who he thinks will restore his faith in himself. The plot embodies a mix of humor, hubris, and the redemption arc of the lead character.
Making / Production
This movie was directed by Jody Hill, who co-wrote it with Danny McBride and Ben Best. Produced under the banner of Gary Sanchez Productions and Mtv Films, The Foot Fist Way premiered at the 2006 Sundance Film Festival before being picked up for a limited theatrical release by Paramount Vantage.
Actors
- Danny McBride as Fred Simmons: Danny McBride brings to life the character of Fred Simmons, an inept but proud Tae Kwon Do instructor.
- Ben Best as Chuck “The Truck” Wallace: Ben Best plays the role of Chuck “The Truck” Wallace, an action star idolized by Fred.
- Mary Jane Bostic as Suzie Simmons: She depicts Suzie, Fred's wife whose infidelity triggers Fred's journey.
Trivia / Interesting Facts
- The Foot Fist Way is the debut movie of the writing team of Best, Hill, and McBride, the trio who would go on to create popular TV shows such as "Eastbound & Down" and "Vice Principals."
- The movie was filmed primarily in Concord, North Carolina.
Awards
The Foot Fist Way did not win any notable awards. However, it garnered positive reviews, becoming a cult hit and launching Danny McBride's career.
Quotes
- “You are not trained to be merciful here. Mercy is for the weak." - Fred Simmons
- “I'm so pathetic. Honest to God, I feel like I'm stuck in a... I can't get out of... God, I suck." - Fred Simmons
Music, Soundtrack
- “Sung’s Theme Part 2" - Pyeong-Ki Kim
- “I Will Remember Your Smile" - Jaden Smith
About The Foot Fist Way
The Foot Fist Way is a comedy focusing on a tae kwon do instructor struggling through a midlife crisis while battling personal and professional failures.