This Ireland low budget shot on home video film directed by Shay Casslerly & Simon Linscheid, is the best known as being their country's first full length martial arts movie. Produced in 1998 as a vanity show reel to Hong Kong Cinema of their real-life martial arts enthusiast Jimmy Bennett. The motion picture has Bennett starring as a version of himself looking & acting in a role very similar to his idol Jean Claude Van Damme in 1988 martial art flick 'Bloodsport', 1989 'Kickboxer' and last 1993 action movie 'Hard Target'; all in a European fighting tournament settling. The film also stars boy band member Mikey Graham of 'Boyzone' fame as a gang member also named Mikey trying to stop Jimmy from winning the contest, in order to gain control of their town of Trim. If this plot sounds very confusing; then you're corrected. The story is indeed utter nonsense. There is little to no reason why this Irish mob needs to win this underground fight to the death in the first place. There is no prize money. It is not like the monks are rich and powerful. They don't hold any office in the city. Also, I really don't get why the monastics there would host a very illegal fighting brawl in Trim Castle in the first place. Are they a secretly cult of past their prime fat & old Friar Tucks outlaws trying to recruit younger criminals? Who knows! They don't seem like shaolin kung fu types. Also why is one of them trying to help Bennett win? That's seems somewhat unfair to the others. To add onto that, the police is nowhere to be founded. It seems like Trim is lawless state. I'm deeply surprised that cops never shut these events down. The murder rate for this quiet town must be really high. After all Jimmy does indeed kill a lot of middle age men acting like young hoodlums. The action scenes in this movie are quite laughable with people being slowly timed kick into giant tower of toilet paper in the middle of the small alley in a grocery store and Jimmy unnecessary combat roll over and back across the bonnet of a car during a fight as it offers no tactical advantage whatsoever. Then there is the scene where the hero goes surfing onto a motorbike while shooting a gun that has odd sound effects and has a muzzle that smokes too much. The stunt work, the special effects and sound mixing during that sequence are really poorly done. Although some of the fighting moment in the film was somewhat decent. The choreograph bar fight was a highlight even if it was mindless filler. The real car crash scene toward the end of the film was intense although it wasn't really intended. That was crazy to see! However sadly that was then ruin by a pointless unfunny comedy bit where a man in a cowboy hat get naked in the public to take a bath in an old tub. His sudden presence in the film was never explained. I don't get why the producer who play the man Justin Harmon wanted to show his balls and butt so randomly. Is he secretly a flasher? It's so bizarre! As for the other performers. Jimmy looks great, but most of Bennett's acting is pretty stiff and wooden. However, he is far away from being the worst. Michael Regan as Mikey's drug lord father Loughlan is the definition of untrained local amateur. He is so discomfort with the language that he trips over the lines when he's reading them out loud. The heavy exposition sent off one liner exchange between Bennet & him in the climax take the cake of awkwardness. Surprisingly it's Mikey Graham the singer who does the best from all of them and this was also debut role. Nevertheless, the acting wasn't the only problem with this movie. The lack of proper microphones makes everybody seem like they're whispering in a public library. I can barely hear what they're saying. It's doesn't help that everybody already has a thin deep Irish accent; including actress Nicola O'Sullivan who played one dimensional damsel in distress Nicola who sounds like a guy. Along with the nonsensical heavy dialogue; the film also suffers from bewildering inappropriate music that doesn't match well with some of the visuals. To add onto that some of the scenes are so poorly lit that it makes parts of the film very unwatchable. The black and white flashbacks are just too pitch dark and blurry for my taste. To make it worst barely any of the location visuals were attractive enough to look at in the first place. Everything looks dirty. I don't know if that was the films intend, but it was certainly a turn off. The only one I really like was seeing the ruins of Trim Castle. That was quite beautiful. Even the dated 1990s window computer visuals title effects were nothing really worth looking at. No wonder why the movie went straight to video without a theatrical release at the time. The film really only gained its 'so bad, it's good' cult popularity status after Youtube came around. Overall: While 'Fatal Deviation' was indeed badly made. I can't hate this film. A lot of heart went into it. It seems like from the peculiarly placed bloopers that the people that made this motion picture had a lot of fun. Plus, I kinda dig the live life, love and survived song. Still it begs the question is the movie worth seeing? Not really, but it certainly evoked some laughter from me. In the end, it might not have the luck of the Irish. However, the film does have its charm.
30 Reviews
The greatest no-budget film of all time
panda_robw14 March 2008
Ultra-cheapo Irish martial arts movie, shot on VHS with amateurism running through it from head to toe. If the slightly threadbare Irish aspect of 'Father Ted' ever raised a smile then you should definitely give this a look.
There's nothing in this film that you could consider in any way professional or competent. The acting stinks, it's badly dubbed, the action scenes are arthritic, the dialogue feeble, the direction barely qualifies as such and the whole thing makes very little sense at all.
However.
I don't think I've ever seen anything quite as entertaining in my life, and not even in a "so bad it's good" sort of way. It's impossible to explain - but it works, it just works. A quite amazing movie.
There's rumoured to be a 10th anniversary festival this year in the village of Trim where it was made. If it pans out, I'm there - if only to meet the incredible James Bennett!
There's nothing in this film that you could consider in any way professional or competent. The acting stinks, it's badly dubbed, the action scenes are arthritic, the dialogue feeble, the direction barely qualifies as such and the whole thing makes very little sense at all.
However.
I don't think I've ever seen anything quite as entertaining in my life, and not even in a "so bad it's good" sort of way. It's impossible to explain - but it works, it just works. A quite amazing movie.
There's rumoured to be a 10th anniversary festival this year in the village of Trim where it was made. If it pans out, I'm there - if only to meet the incredible James Bennett!
"In keeping with the ancient ways, there are no rules"
The_Phantom_Projectionist22 June 2015
I don't know how the Irish martial arts cinematic scene is doing, these days, but I would not be surprised if the last 17 years have not been enough time to recover from this debacle. To be certain, FATAL DEVIATION – apparently the first Irish martial arts film – is a no-budget feature that deserves some slack given its obvious limitations, but I just couldn't find any fun in it to justify a higher rating. This is a simple movie made with the most basic means, but unless you like "bad" films for the sake of badness, I can't recommend it to you.
The story: A young martial artist (James Bennett) returns to his hometown to avenge the death of his father at the hands of a murderous drug lord (Michael Regan).
The only substantial thing the film has to its credit is its lead star. James looks great and has some cool moves, and I was genuinely surprised to realize that he's had nothing resembling a solo career since this picture...but then I remembered that the world already has a Jean-Claude Van Damme. Admittedly, no Caucasian karate star can avoid being compared to Van Damme, but both Bennett and the filmmakers go out of their way to make this as much of a JCVD homage/knockoff as possible. Bennett's character (1) must avenge a family member, (2) enters a tournament, (3) is trained by a master, (4) performs the splits, (5) performs helicopter kicks, and (6) must topple an unbeatable opponent.* Aside from such general resemblances, there are several blatant lifts from HARD TARGET, and man! – does it ever look silly to see these guys trying to ape John Woo's style without a penny to their name.
However, the vast majority of the film is unambitious to a fault. On one hand, I commend the filmmakers for knowing their limitations and keeping the plot as basic as possible, but on the other, it's disappointing that they did not exploit the creative freedom intrinsic to indie filmmaking a little more. But perhaps I am asking for too much, because these guys really don't have much to work with: there isn't a skilled actor among the cast and the technical limitations of the filming equipment are apparent in every poorly-lit and color-blinking shot. The fight scenes are the only aspect captured with anything resembling flair, but despite their quantity, few fights are filmed well enough to stand out and few fighters other than Bennett have enough screen time to make an impression.
Despite its short runtime, FATAL DEVIATION has a meandering pace that makes it a chore to watch, and the odd pop-polka soundtrack certainly did not help me pass the time faster. Simply stated, this movie is no triumph. While I would be delighted to see James Bennett headline another feature, I desperately hope for any kind of a budget for the poor guy.
*Credit to the original "Van Damme Checklist" belongs to Jason of Amazon.com.
The story: A young martial artist (James Bennett) returns to his hometown to avenge the death of his father at the hands of a murderous drug lord (Michael Regan).
The only substantial thing the film has to its credit is its lead star. James looks great and has some cool moves, and I was genuinely surprised to realize that he's had nothing resembling a solo career since this picture...but then I remembered that the world already has a Jean-Claude Van Damme. Admittedly, no Caucasian karate star can avoid being compared to Van Damme, but both Bennett and the filmmakers go out of their way to make this as much of a JCVD homage/knockoff as possible. Bennett's character (1) must avenge a family member, (2) enters a tournament, (3) is trained by a master, (4) performs the splits, (5) performs helicopter kicks, and (6) must topple an unbeatable opponent.* Aside from such general resemblances, there are several blatant lifts from HARD TARGET, and man! – does it ever look silly to see these guys trying to ape John Woo's style without a penny to their name.
However, the vast majority of the film is unambitious to a fault. On one hand, I commend the filmmakers for knowing their limitations and keeping the plot as basic as possible, but on the other, it's disappointing that they did not exploit the creative freedom intrinsic to indie filmmaking a little more. But perhaps I am asking for too much, because these guys really don't have much to work with: there isn't a skilled actor among the cast and the technical limitations of the filming equipment are apparent in every poorly-lit and color-blinking shot. The fight scenes are the only aspect captured with anything resembling flair, but despite their quantity, few fights are filmed well enough to stand out and few fighters other than Bennett have enough screen time to make an impression.
Despite its short runtime, FATAL DEVIATION has a meandering pace that makes it a chore to watch, and the odd pop-polka soundtrack certainly did not help me pass the time faster. Simply stated, this movie is no triumph. While I would be delighted to see James Bennett headline another feature, I desperately hope for any kind of a budget for the poor guy.
*Credit to the original "Van Damme Checklist" belongs to Jason of Amazon.com.
This is a home movie
Sailinship20 February 2008
This is a home movie masquerading as an action movie. I couldn't watch it, but some of you may like it. the quality isn't low budget, it's no budget. I scanned through it and there are scenes where the sound is almost totally gone, and many scenes with really really boring stuff going on in what appears to be vacant cheap apartments. It might have a good story, but I guess I'm too spoiled by professionally made movies. How much more can I say about a movie I couldn't watch? If your a friend of these people you'll probably be slamming the "NOT HELPFUL" button now. I understand that everyone wants to be a movie star, but how the people making this could have deluded themselves that anybody besides friends and neighbors might want to watch this is beyond me.
One of the worst action films ever made...
Idiot-Deluxe7 July 2019
...and it was all filmed directly onto VHS tape to boot and it looks like it. One can't cringe hard enough.
CRACK-A-BOOM! Now THIS, right here, is how everyone should start off a film career! Because the instant you press that play button your screen is absolutely set ablaze and crackling with the raw, untamed energy of James Bennett (Irish kick-boxing legend, iconic action star and all around badass) and it's then that you'll realize that an unparalleled level of action movie ecstasy has been achieved.
But of course, with all sarcasm aside, none of that's really true when watching this remarkably lame, sub-amateurish movie...
Right from the start star/director extraodinaire James Bennett reveals his great talent and singular vision of cinema in his film debut: FATAL DEVIATION! At the time of filming he was only 22 years old, appeared to have no experience what-so-ever in film-making and is obviously a Jean Claude Van Damme wannabe in the worst possible way. This movie resoundingly proves that not always is mimicry the highest form of flattery, as Bennett clearly idolizes Van Damme, to the point of having his picture on the wall wasn't a big enough clue. But even more revealing is the fact that on several occasions Bennett try's his best to stage and replicate specific scenes from Van Damme's movies (mostly from Kick Boxer and Hard Target) with absolutely terrible looking results.
I won't speak of the plot, other than to say it's indeed a very impressive one. I can say that the acting in this movie is some worst and most wooden ever seen and people say Van Damme's a bad actor, but just what till you see this! The films dialog is kept to a minimum at all times (which often makes for some very abrupt scene transitions) and that's a plus, because you might have guessed it, the writing for this is woeful. The sound of the film is VERY lo-fi and often seems muffled (the gun-shots near the end for instance), at times some of the dialog is hard to make out and also it must be said that whoever picked the musical selections did as bad a job as humanly possible. Just listen to musical abominations that comprise Fatal Deviations soundtrack.
Back to the plagiarizing angle for a moment it's almost as blatant here as it is with Reb Brown's Strike Commando (1987), which proceeds to rip-off every other scene from Rambo II, as they copy, stage and limply recreate scene after scene from much better action films made years earlier. Again I saw more than a fleeting glimpse of both Kick Boxer and Hard Target (and likely some other titles) while watching Fatal Deviation. Coincidence? Most definitely not. This film stands as a great example for why it's so important that a qualified and experienced film director (or in James Bennett's case an "actual" film director) be hired to deftly and cohesively direct a picture, because if not movies such as Fatal Deviation show up and litter the cinematic horizon.
Just for a joke: Compare the levels of technical excellence of Fury Road, Aliens, T2, Rambo III or even Snake Eater III to this movie. Yeah, that's quite a difference.
Lastly, come on guys, stop with the flagrantly wrong 10 star "Perfect" ratings. The sarcasms great, but rating it that high is stupid and nonsensical.
CRACK-A-BOOM! Now THIS, right here, is how everyone should start off a film career! Because the instant you press that play button your screen is absolutely set ablaze and crackling with the raw, untamed energy of James Bennett (Irish kick-boxing legend, iconic action star and all around badass) and it's then that you'll realize that an unparalleled level of action movie ecstasy has been achieved.
But of course, with all sarcasm aside, none of that's really true when watching this remarkably lame, sub-amateurish movie...
Right from the start star/director extraodinaire James Bennett reveals his great talent and singular vision of cinema in his film debut: FATAL DEVIATION! At the time of filming he was only 22 years old, appeared to have no experience what-so-ever in film-making and is obviously a Jean Claude Van Damme wannabe in the worst possible way. This movie resoundingly proves that not always is mimicry the highest form of flattery, as Bennett clearly idolizes Van Damme, to the point of having his picture on the wall wasn't a big enough clue. But even more revealing is the fact that on several occasions Bennett try's his best to stage and replicate specific scenes from Van Damme's movies (mostly from Kick Boxer and Hard Target) with absolutely terrible looking results.
I won't speak of the plot, other than to say it's indeed a very impressive one. I can say that the acting in this movie is some worst and most wooden ever seen and people say Van Damme's a bad actor, but just what till you see this! The films dialog is kept to a minimum at all times (which often makes for some very abrupt scene transitions) and that's a plus, because you might have guessed it, the writing for this is woeful. The sound of the film is VERY lo-fi and often seems muffled (the gun-shots near the end for instance), at times some of the dialog is hard to make out and also it must be said that whoever picked the musical selections did as bad a job as humanly possible. Just listen to musical abominations that comprise Fatal Deviations soundtrack.
Back to the plagiarizing angle for a moment it's almost as blatant here as it is with Reb Brown's Strike Commando (1987), which proceeds to rip-off every other scene from Rambo II, as they copy, stage and limply recreate scene after scene from much better action films made years earlier. Again I saw more than a fleeting glimpse of both Kick Boxer and Hard Target (and likely some other titles) while watching Fatal Deviation. Coincidence? Most definitely not. This film stands as a great example for why it's so important that a qualified and experienced film director (or in James Bennett's case an "actual" film director) be hired to deftly and cohesively direct a picture, because if not movies such as Fatal Deviation show up and litter the cinematic horizon.
Just for a joke: Compare the levels of technical excellence of Fury Road, Aliens, T2, Rambo III or even Snake Eater III to this movie. Yeah, that's quite a difference.
Lastly, come on guys, stop with the flagrantly wrong 10 star "Perfect" ratings. The sarcasms great, but rating it that high is stupid and nonsensical.
Enlightening!
camcairnhill20 May 2012
Before I seen this film my life wasn't worth living, I had lost my job, my girlfriend left me for my granddad and Im ashamed to admit, I was thinking about committing suicide.
A friend recommended I watch this, and I was sceptical at first, but it was the best thing I've ever done. This film taught me some life lessons that I have encompassed into my lifestyle. I now run my own company with a multimillion pound turnover, my girlfriend is a 19 year old model and I owe it all to this film.
Thank you Fatal Deviation, than you so much.
And thank you James Bennet, you are a modern day sage in the mould of Socrates with your wisdom.
A friend recommended I watch this, and I was sceptical at first, but it was the best thing I've ever done. This film taught me some life lessons that I have encompassed into my lifestyle. I now run my own company with a multimillion pound turnover, my girlfriend is a 19 year old model and I owe it all to this film.
Thank you Fatal Deviation, than you so much.
And thank you James Bennet, you are a modern day sage in the mould of Socrates with your wisdom.
Absolutely Atrocious!
Jahanpanah16 April 2014
I cannot understand how everybody here is praising this movie. In fact I wouldn't even call it a movie at all. Looks like one fine day, some people got their hands on a camera in their basement and decided to shoot some scenes in their backyard to come up with a movie like this. Do not trust the reviewers here. Check the Wiki page for quick reference and it'll direct you to an article on cracked explaining why this is the worst film ever. I do not normally write reviews but I made an exception because almost every reviewer here is deluding the people into believing that it is one of the best movies ever. Trust me and do not waste your resources on this film. I wish I could have given it a zero but IMDb wouldn't allow it.
Easily the greatest film of all time, you have not lived till you see this beautiful movie..
craig-90522 December 2008
Too call this film an Oscar winning performance is an understatement. Bennett has the qualities of a master, more agile than Bruce Lee but with the funny bone of Jackie Chan. From moon kicks to standing on logs he can do it all. From a young age he was trained in one of the finest schools in Europe, the school of Bennett in Trim. His dad was a master of the sport and has always been proud of his son, he is now and he was then. His first and only film "Fatal Deviation" reached box office success with packed out shows in his home town of Trim. Hes his own stunt man and cos of his recklessness his friends dubbed him "Johnny Square Ass". Hes so crazy he even did his own car stunt in which he nearly died, yes hes that mental! So crazy in fact that after the stunt he gets out and laughs, what a guy!!
My friends and I have watched this over 50 times minimum and still watch it bi monthly. It is without a doubt my favourite film of all time and a piece of Irish film history, way better than your Michael Collins or any other wannabe Irish movie. If your looking for authenticity well then look no further.
This film makes me proud of my country..
It makes me sad that the guy down below that gave this piece of brave film making a 1/10, obviously s/he just doesn't get the films plot and insane action. Its probably not Hollywood enough for him but if you can appreciate a film for its roaming shots of rural life, tricky martial art stunts, harrowing love interests and som eof the finest acting this side of the world, well then take a seat, open your eyes and set your mind to stun.
(p.s: the priest can still be seen roaming the church grounds but only "after training").
My friends and I have watched this over 50 times minimum and still watch it bi monthly. It is without a doubt my favourite film of all time and a piece of Irish film history, way better than your Michael Collins or any other wannabe Irish movie. If your looking for authenticity well then look no further.
This film makes me proud of my country..
It makes me sad that the guy down below that gave this piece of brave film making a 1/10, obviously s/he just doesn't get the films plot and insane action. Its probably not Hollywood enough for him but if you can appreciate a film for its roaming shots of rural life, tricky martial art stunts, harrowing love interests and som eof the finest acting this side of the world, well then take a seat, open your eyes and set your mind to stun.
(p.s: the priest can still be seen roaming the church grounds but only "after training").
Extraordinary
qasim-mohammed120 May 2012
To call this just a film would be tantamount to calling Da Vinci just a mere artist or Scorcese an amateur.
I believe this film has the ability to change lives and should be introduced into School Ciriculums to combat drug-abuse, underage smoking and drinking and would also eradicate underage pregnancies.
The lessons learned in this has already made me stop smoking 100 Mayfair before breakfast, and I've even stopped drinking 3 bottles of Frosty Jack a day, which is around 20% of my daily requirement of Frosty Jack.
The lessons learned in this masterpiece, if viewed by our representatives in Parliament definitely has the power to stop wars and allow some form of united world socialism.
Bless you Shay Casserly, and Jimmy Bennet for introducing me to what can be accomplished with shared vision and a beautiful philosophy that underlies this masterclass of film-making.
I believe this film has the ability to change lives and should be introduced into School Ciriculums to combat drug-abuse, underage smoking and drinking and would also eradicate underage pregnancies.
The lessons learned in this has already made me stop smoking 100 Mayfair before breakfast, and I've even stopped drinking 3 bottles of Frosty Jack a day, which is around 20% of my daily requirement of Frosty Jack.
The lessons learned in this masterpiece, if viewed by our representatives in Parliament definitely has the power to stop wars and allow some form of united world socialism.
Bless you Shay Casserly, and Jimmy Bennet for introducing me to what can be accomplished with shared vision and a beautiful philosophy that underlies this masterclass of film-making.
One of the finest Irish Kung Fu movies of the 1990s
fabiogaucho19 October 2020
Every so often a movie comes along...and this is a movie
Red-Barracuda23 November 2023
I think I read somewhere that this is the first Irish martial arts movie ever - I'm guessing it probably has the distinction of being the last as well. It stars James Bennett, who is Ireland's answer to Tonny Tulleners. His acting level makes Van Damme appear like Richard Burton but I am guessing he was hired more for his martial art moves. It does have to be said though that the fight sequences are absolutely ludicrous and the hero has a mysterious mentor who seems to be a magical monk from a forest. The film itself has been shot on video and, consequently, it truly looks appalling. Story-wise, like this genre in general, its generic in the extreme - its sort of like Kickboxer or something. Ultimately, it is kind of interesting seeing what an Irish martial arts action movie is like - it's sort of like a low end chopsocky flick...but worse. But fair play to them, they made a movie.
Life Changing
qasim-mohammed20 May 2012
I was once seen walking around with one shoe on, upon being asked if I lost a shoe, I responded "No, I found one." This transexisential thought-process was a result of watching this film.
How James 'Jimmy' Bennett hasn't went onto further his career in Hollywood is more to do with his beliefs that he wishes to remain in Ireland and boost the Irish film economy.
All the classic ingredients of an amazing action film are contained in this mementous masterpiece: amazing CGI effects that were partly done on a Commodore 64, insane stunts, a beautifully narrative and the jaw-droppingly stunning Paudie Greene as the leading lady who, for some factual movie trivia, actually came 12th in the Limmerick Rural Lovely Gurls competition in 1997. It even stars Mickey Graham. The seminal pop-singer and 'Nice One' from Boyzone. Mikey shows why he replaced Colin 'Feckin' Farrell in the line-up and shows he can compete with anyone in front of the camera.
This film was touted for the foreign film award at the Oscars and rightly so.
From now on I will no longer be wearing my Megadeth t-shirt, but will be wearing the Fatal Deviation t-shirt I got for signing up to the fan club.
Thank you, Fatal Deviation....the lessons learned from this film can, if watched by more people, boost this country's economy single-handedly out of recession and allow me to continually drink Dark Destroyers while watching this film.
How James 'Jimmy' Bennett hasn't went onto further his career in Hollywood is more to do with his beliefs that he wishes to remain in Ireland and boost the Irish film economy.
All the classic ingredients of an amazing action film are contained in this mementous masterpiece: amazing CGI effects that were partly done on a Commodore 64, insane stunts, a beautifully narrative and the jaw-droppingly stunning Paudie Greene as the leading lady who, for some factual movie trivia, actually came 12th in the Limmerick Rural Lovely Gurls competition in 1997. It even stars Mickey Graham. The seminal pop-singer and 'Nice One' from Boyzone. Mikey shows why he replaced Colin 'Feckin' Farrell in the line-up and shows he can compete with anyone in front of the camera.
This film was touted for the foreign film award at the Oscars and rightly so.
From now on I will no longer be wearing my Megadeth t-shirt, but will be wearing the Fatal Deviation t-shirt I got for signing up to the fan club.
Thank you, Fatal Deviation....the lessons learned from this film can, if watched by more people, boost this country's economy single-handedly out of recession and allow me to continually drink Dark Destroyers while watching this film.
Greatest "unknown" movie ever? I think so.
Nallo16 July 2010
Possibly the greatest movie ever made, complete with carefully interwoven subplots thats keeps the viewer guessing for days afterwards.
Mickey Graham is nothing short of spectacular and James P. Bennett plays the role with all the coolness and natural ability of Bruce Lee, but also has the emotional acting ability of a young Marlon Brando or Humphrey Bogarts performance in The Big Sleep.
As far as scenery, you couldn't wish for a more serene setting than Trim, its a character in itself, just like Sergio Leone's mid 1960s westerns.
This is a celebration of joy.
Mickey Graham is nothing short of spectacular and James P. Bennett plays the role with all the coolness and natural ability of Bruce Lee, but also has the emotional acting ability of a young Marlon Brando or Humphrey Bogarts performance in The Big Sleep.
As far as scenery, you couldn't wish for a more serene setting than Trim, its a character in itself, just like Sergio Leone's mid 1960s westerns.
This is a celebration of joy.
This movie made me discover that I'm actually Irish!
t_atzmueller25 January 2014
Much has been written about this movie and undeniably most statements are absolutely true. Yes, viewing "Fatal Deviation" can give back eyesight to the blind and has been known to cure lepers. Why James Bennett has not been hired to play a major role in "The Expendables 4" is beyond my understanding, I can only presume that Sly and Arnie are intimidated by Jimmy's sheer awesomeness.
Let's just focus on the brilliant dialogs, which really prove that Shakespeare was merely an inarticulate, monosyllable clot. "You made me look bad, and that is not good"!, has since replaced "Hallo, how are you" in my vocabulary. "You have killed my son! Now I'll kill you like I killed your father", sneers the kingpin, who wishes to defend his drug-monopoly in the metropolis of Trim (Population: 8,000). Our hero replies faster and wittier than Eddie Murphy could have ever dreamed off: "You have killed my father! Now I will kill you like I killed your son". I could go on quoting those lyrical gems but am afraid that my keyboard will overheat.
Watch out for a cameo by JCVD himself (he appears in a picture hanging from the reform-school dorms wall), which led many a person to the speculation that Bennett has indeed studied under the muscles-from-brussels (or, humble martial artist that he is, has changed his birth name Sean-Claude O'Damme to J.P). The rest of the cast is equally formidable; any puppet-theater in the world would crave to have such fine actors among their ensemble. Not to forget the leading lady: The tag line has promised us "a hot babe" – that's like saying a volcano is only lukewarm. The way she presents our hero with a pancake and than blows at a dandelion made me feel like I was cheating my wife by just watching. Surely, you couldn't find a fyner lass in all of Trim, county Meath.
I loved this movie so much that I christened my firstborn daughter James Bennett! And please: Ignore all those reviews that deny the film its greatness and have surely been composed by the sock-puppets of a bitter Chuck Norris and jealous Jackie Chan. The leprechauns pot has finally been discovered and it contains not gold, but a copy "Fatal Deviation"! Only 10/10 and I can only petition IMDb to give us extra points just to bestow it upon this masterpiece.
Let's just focus on the brilliant dialogs, which really prove that Shakespeare was merely an inarticulate, monosyllable clot. "You made me look bad, and that is not good"!, has since replaced "Hallo, how are you" in my vocabulary. "You have killed my son! Now I'll kill you like I killed your father", sneers the kingpin, who wishes to defend his drug-monopoly in the metropolis of Trim (Population: 8,000). Our hero replies faster and wittier than Eddie Murphy could have ever dreamed off: "You have killed my father! Now I will kill you like I killed your son". I could go on quoting those lyrical gems but am afraid that my keyboard will overheat.
Watch out for a cameo by JCVD himself (he appears in a picture hanging from the reform-school dorms wall), which led many a person to the speculation that Bennett has indeed studied under the muscles-from-brussels (or, humble martial artist that he is, has changed his birth name Sean-Claude O'Damme to J.P). The rest of the cast is equally formidable; any puppet-theater in the world would crave to have such fine actors among their ensemble. Not to forget the leading lady: The tag line has promised us "a hot babe" – that's like saying a volcano is only lukewarm. The way she presents our hero with a pancake and than blows at a dandelion made me feel like I was cheating my wife by just watching. Surely, you couldn't find a fyner lass in all of Trim, county Meath.
I loved this movie so much that I christened my firstborn daughter James Bennett! And please: Ignore all those reviews that deny the film its greatness and have surely been composed by the sock-puppets of a bitter Chuck Norris and jealous Jackie Chan. The leprechauns pot has finally been discovered and it contains not gold, but a copy "Fatal Deviation"! Only 10/10 and I can only petition IMDb to give us extra points just to bestow it upon this masterpiece.
The greatest martial arts film since... since... Psycho Kickboxer!
Corpus_Vile31 July 2011
After being released from the utter hell of St Claude's reform school, taciturn badass James P Bennet returns home to his village to find out what happened to his father, and to take on the local kingpin, who conducts his international crime cartel from a caravan and has Mikey from Boyzone as a coke snorting henchman.
The P in Bennet's name obviously stands for "Punch the head off ya" as that's pretty much all he does, be it in field or pub. Watch in amazement as Bennet trains in slow mo to no less than THREE montage sequences. Gape in awe as he beats the bejaysus outa track suit garbed thugs in Londis supermarket. Gasp in incredulity at the tournament held among bales of hay, in which about 30 people attend. Drop your jaw at the awesomely sound FX-d cruddy fight scenes.
In short it's a nigh on craptasterpiece that fully deserves this term I just made up. See it now, preferably drunk. And NEVER kidnap James P Bennet's squeeze...
The P in Bennet's name obviously stands for "Punch the head off ya" as that's pretty much all he does, be it in field or pub. Watch in amazement as Bennet trains in slow mo to no less than THREE montage sequences. Gape in awe as he beats the bejaysus outa track suit garbed thugs in Londis supermarket. Gasp in incredulity at the tournament held among bales of hay, in which about 30 people attend. Drop your jaw at the awesomely sound FX-d cruddy fight scenes.
In short it's a nigh on craptasterpiece that fully deserves this term I just made up. See it now, preferably drunk. And NEVER kidnap James P Bennet's squeeze...
Back Kick Heaven
crazymother18 March 2008
I don't know many people that have seen this film; however, the few I do know don't seem to like it. I can't understand why this is. It seems to include all the ingredients necessary to make a martial arts masterpiece... insane martial arts moves... intricate plot... sublime acting and Mikey Graham from Irish Boy Band Boyzone.
The lead actor/character, James Bennett, is perhaps the most significant martial arts actor since the late great Bruce Lee. He delivers a fantastic acting performance delivering his lines with the eloquence of a Shakespearean actor while delivering his back kicks with the ferocity of a kangaroo. Indeed Bennett's back kick is certainly his most effective weapon which is why he chooses to use it all the time.
Another character of note is Bennett's mentor the monk. Every great martial arts film has a mysterious elderly master and fatal deviation is no different. However, it does approach this aspect of the genre in a unique way. The monk, Bennett's master and trainer, doesn't seem to have any training himself. Basically he just gives Bennett Yoga like advice and hides behind trees.
Last but certainly not least is the performance of Mikey Graham. Mikey Graham was a member of an Irish boy band called Boyzone which enjoyed major success in Ireland and Britain throughout the late nineties. Always the bride's maid and never the bride, Mikey had always been considered one of the less important members of the band. He was never as popular with the fans as his colleagues were. Fatal Deviation was expected to put Mikey to the forefront... it should have. Playing an extremely brutal gangster was always going to be tough for the clean cut pop star but his stellar performance was comparable with that of Daniel Day Lewis in "Gangs of New York." Look out for his use of "angry eyebrows" to portray how angry he feels.
To conclude I feel the film has been unduly criticized, and for true martial arts fans this is a must see.
The lead actor/character, James Bennett, is perhaps the most significant martial arts actor since the late great Bruce Lee. He delivers a fantastic acting performance delivering his lines with the eloquence of a Shakespearean actor while delivering his back kicks with the ferocity of a kangaroo. Indeed Bennett's back kick is certainly his most effective weapon which is why he chooses to use it all the time.
Another character of note is Bennett's mentor the monk. Every great martial arts film has a mysterious elderly master and fatal deviation is no different. However, it does approach this aspect of the genre in a unique way. The monk, Bennett's master and trainer, doesn't seem to have any training himself. Basically he just gives Bennett Yoga like advice and hides behind trees.
Last but certainly not least is the performance of Mikey Graham. Mikey Graham was a member of an Irish boy band called Boyzone which enjoyed major success in Ireland and Britain throughout the late nineties. Always the bride's maid and never the bride, Mikey had always been considered one of the less important members of the band. He was never as popular with the fans as his colleagues were. Fatal Deviation was expected to put Mikey to the forefront... it should have. Playing an extremely brutal gangster was always going to be tough for the clean cut pop star but his stellar performance was comparable with that of Daniel Day Lewis in "Gangs of New York." Look out for his use of "angry eyebrows" to portray how angry he feels.
To conclude I feel the film has been unduly criticized, and for true martial arts fans this is a must see.
Pure Class
podgefunk24 November 2007
The Greatest Irish Film of all time, regardless of what anybody says; Pure Genius. It's a shame that Jimmy Bennet has not popped up in anything since, skillful as he is not only in martial arts, but his incredible acting abilities sees to be a shameful waste of natural talent. The same goes for the rest of the cast, powerful performances by all give way to real-as- life martial arts and action so intense you will want to watch it over again. As rumors go the films budget was made with an astonishing small amount of only £200, professional camera crew and sensible post production make this small-would-be indie hit into a full explosive, extravagant blockbuster that all should see! The town of Trim has produced an incredible amount of talent for such a small place, Amazing!
Pushes undefeatable into 2nd place of the greatest martial arts movie ever made
birrmush8 September 2008
Excellent acting by good guy jimmy(i'm going to be the next jean claude van damme) bennett and the evil gang boss played by brilliant solicitor michael regan, who when they're delivering lines such as "Fuck you and your gun, ya prick" and "wouldn't that be sweet?!" seem so natural it defies the fact that this is their movie debut.
My only gripes with this movie are that it isn't longer and didn't have any sequels. If the makers of this timeless classic read this and many internet blogs on this legendary movie surely they'll realise that a DVD release would sell brilliantly online, surely then funding a much sought after sequel. Well done lads!
My only gripes with this movie are that it isn't longer and didn't have any sequels. If the makers of this timeless classic read this and many internet blogs on this legendary movie surely they'll realise that a DVD release would sell brilliantly online, surely then funding a much sought after sequel. Well done lads!
Easy to love! Silly fun all the way
tarbosh2200011 January 2021
Warning: Spoilers
After ten years in a reform school, a young Martial Artist named Jimmy Bennett (Bennett) returns to his hometown of Trim in County Meath, Ireland. It's not long before trouble finds him. The evil gangsters that killed his father are harassing him and his newfound love, Nicola (O'Sullivan). Jimmy is invited to take part in a local no-rules Punchfighting tournament called The Bealtaine.
The baddies don't want him to win, but Bennett plays by his own rules. Also, thankfully, he and Nicola befriend a wise monk from the abbey (Murray), and he helps Bennett train and train and train. It all comes to an explosive head when said baddies kidnap Nicola and Bennett is forced to go into overdrive to save her - and save the day. What in the world is a FATAL DEVIATION? All will be explained...
What can we say about the great Fatal Deviation that hasn't already been said? It's billed as "Ireland's first Martial Arts action movie" and this shot-on-video project has a DIY feel and a ton of heart that's easy to love. It's funny and fantastically entertaining. It's unique and one-of-a-kind. We here in the U.S. had Razor Sharpe (2001). Ireland had Fatal Deviation. It's the movie that dares to make the natural connection of "County Meath, Ireland" with "Martial Arts". You've got to see it. You just have to!
The star of the show is, of course, James "Jimmy" Bennett. He was born to be an action star. He clearly has spent the time working on not just his physique, but also his technique. His line readings are gold. If Schwarzenegger can come from Austria to make it big in the U.S., why not Bennett? It was nice to see such a Van Damme fan get to indulge his fantasies (VanTasies?) - Bennett:
...and we could probably go on. Yes, there are monks, but since Dennis Rodman was not involved, they're not of the Cyber variety. They may not have been able to get Rodman, but they did get Mikey Graham from the boy band Boyzone.
One thing we have yet to see is Van Damme riding bumper cars at the Funfair or beating up miscreants at the local market. There is a lot of charm on display here, and it's just fun to see.
There are many more examples, but another one is, when the gangsters are threatening Bennett to take a dive in the tournament, they hand him a note that says "Loose or Else". At first we weren't sure what sort of threat that could possibly be. But, then again, baddies aren't known for their spelling.
Featuring an unknown song that's a lot like "Young, Cool, and Groovy" from Houseboat Horror (1989), A better Ireland tourism video you could not find. Fatal Deviation almost inadvertently combines the natural beauty of the Emerald Isle with the awesomeness of Jimmy Bennett. Fatal Deviation is a must-see.
The baddies don't want him to win, but Bennett plays by his own rules. Also, thankfully, he and Nicola befriend a wise monk from the abbey (Murray), and he helps Bennett train and train and train. It all comes to an explosive head when said baddies kidnap Nicola and Bennett is forced to go into overdrive to save her - and save the day. What in the world is a FATAL DEVIATION? All will be explained...
What can we say about the great Fatal Deviation that hasn't already been said? It's billed as "Ireland's first Martial Arts action movie" and this shot-on-video project has a DIY feel and a ton of heart that's easy to love. It's funny and fantastically entertaining. It's unique and one-of-a-kind. We here in the U.S. had Razor Sharpe (2001). Ireland had Fatal Deviation. It's the movie that dares to make the natural connection of "County Meath, Ireland" with "Martial Arts". You've got to see it. You just have to!
The star of the show is, of course, James "Jimmy" Bennett. He was born to be an action star. He clearly has spent the time working on not just his physique, but also his technique. His line readings are gold. If Schwarzenegger can come from Austria to make it big in the U.S., why not Bennett? It was nice to see such a Van Damme fan get to indulge his fantasies (VanTasies?) - Bennett:
- Does splits like Van Damme
- Stands on a motorbike and shoots his pistol like JCVD does in Hard Target
- Wears a similar blue shirt to Chance Boudreaux
- Fights in a tournament as Van Damme does in The Quest (1996)
- Has flashbacks to childhood training like in Bloodsport (1988)
- He leaves St. Claude's Academy at the beginning of the film
...and we could probably go on. Yes, there are monks, but since Dennis Rodman was not involved, they're not of the Cyber variety. They may not have been able to get Rodman, but they did get Mikey Graham from the boy band Boyzone.
One thing we have yet to see is Van Damme riding bumper cars at the Funfair or beating up miscreants at the local market. There is a lot of charm on display here, and it's just fun to see.
There are many more examples, but another one is, when the gangsters are threatening Bennett to take a dive in the tournament, they hand him a note that says "Loose or Else". At first we weren't sure what sort of threat that could possibly be. But, then again, baddies aren't known for their spelling.
Featuring an unknown song that's a lot like "Young, Cool, and Groovy" from Houseboat Horror (1989), A better Ireland tourism video you could not find. Fatal Deviation almost inadvertently combines the natural beauty of the Emerald Isle with the awesomeness of Jimmy Bennett. Fatal Deviation is a must-see.
I love it because it exists
DamnYouGoogle26 May 2011
1998's Fatal Deviation is an Irish direct to video martial arts film written and starring tike sized fighter, James P. Bennett, im going to be frank, this movie is what I call "A beautiful failure" this movie is horrible in every facet, The acting, the soundtrack, the stunts, the story, the dialog, and the film quality are all at best laughable, but with all this ridiculousness it finds...zen if you will, much like other films in its category (at least to me) The Room, Troll 2, Hobgoblins, and The animated Titanic films, Final Deviation transcends horrible film making to the point that you are forced to enjoy it as you belt out laughing... I suggest everyone watch it but only if you are in the mood for a funny and down right silly time (its free on youtube).
Fatal Deviation (1998) 8/10 (for all the wrong reasons)
Fatal Deviation (1998) 8/10 (for all the wrong reasons)
Why Is This Treated Like A Joke
crowes-1886521 February 2020
It seems like many of these positive reviews on this site are done sarcastically but I don't understand why. I do take exception with the title since there is no deviation and since it does not exist it is hardly fatal but other than that this movie is breathtaking from beginning to end. the acting may seem a little stiff at first but once the actors settle into their roles they are all top caliber. James P. Bennett deserved the career Van Damme stole from him. His moves are slick and ooze machismo. There were several times his character's sincerity moved me to tears. The action sequences are top notch given the tiny budget and the choreography sacrifices nothing. The filmmakers took the time and had the nerve to add art to the picture. Some might misinterpret the scene where the unknown character bathes in a tub full of dirty water outside of his camper as a mistake or a scene which they forgot to explain but it's obvious to me this was a statement on the state of humankind - who are we really and does any of it even matter? Brilliant, brilliant stuff which was lost on so many lesser, unsophisticated viewers. Don't worry that this all makes it too somber because once you think the delight of all of this is over you are treated to an uproarious blooper reel of other actors getting injure by the star James P Bennett. Some say this was a lack of control in the fight sequences but I know it was Bennett's commitment to realism in the fights. If Van Damme did the same his movies might have been more successful. This is why Van Damme never starred with Bennett but Seagal did. The female lead in the movie is the most beautiful woman who has ever lived and the fact that she could really act didn't hurt at all. The dirt bike fight scenes brought up memories of the dirt bike love scene from Ruckus even though the woman was on the sideline during these scenes rather than riding next to Kyle and showing her love for him on the dirt bike trails. This brings us to the tournament climax - a kumite unlike any you have ever seen, a secret society kind of bloodbath of earth shattering consequence and impact. The best part is when during the final battle between our hero and the aptly named Seagull the protagonist simply leaves the arena to start killing the bad guys to avenge his father's death. The training sequences are a mixture of high drama and are very zen. You'll know when you are in a memory sequence by the hero's constipated look and when he shuts his eyes tight to initiate the memory. I so hope that the rumors of Fatal Deviation Krakatoa are true because it is high passed time for some more lethal deviations. And if you are one of the many people who despise James P Bennett I have this to say to you..... Hey. At least he is better than Brendan Fraser.
An Irish movie deficient in budget but brimming with titanic soul
SonOfSalem23 August 2011
I watched this movie recently. When it was over I sat in silence, thinking. Although I come from the town where it was shot, I had never watched it before. Parts yes, but never in its entirety. I would recommend it to anyone even remotely interested in making movies and especially those who as yet, are not completely lost to the cold logical grip of cynicism; it may just bring you back from the edge.
I continued sitting in silence, wondering what it was about the movie that had so taken the reigns of my thoughts. I replayed the gritty fight scenes in my head, and the beautifully naive love triangle. The awkward line delivery and the wonderfully spiritual woodland scenes and inventive use of locations. And then it hit me; I felt like I had been looking at the sun without realizing where the light was coming from. It was James Bennett.
Fatal Deviation lends some insight into a personal journey, of a road chosen and taken that has a far greater resonance than the negative derision that has resounded rather unfairly in my opinion from some of the movies obvious constraints; a journey that has embryonic dreams fuelled by a powerful heart and an "iron will" that refuses to say no. James Bennett hunts his dreams with a rocket launcher. And to be honest, in my opinion, the man should be regarded as an inspiration.
Remember your classics? Dickens wrote about people like him. And speaking of classics, "No retreat No Surrender" probably one of the most underrated martial arts movies of all time springs to mind. I doubt if James will ever settle for meagre rations. I think he will always ask for more...
It's easy for some to stand in shadows, sum up an individual by their "so called" failures; it's harder for those same to bring those failures into the light; because bound only by fracturing testimony, we know most would crumble beneath even modest scrutiny. In the shadows, the finger never rotates inwards. I know because I lived there for a very long time.
I give it an 8/10.
Fatal Deviation was filmed in and around Trim Co, Meath.
James Bennett has a slew of credited and uncredited work, and is appearing with Johnny Depp and Timothy Hutton in a new movie about "The Lone Ranger".
You got dreams? Don't sit there and complain, or mock the decent people. Either get up or shut up. Or perhaps take a page from James... hunt them down with a rocket launcher.
I continued sitting in silence, wondering what it was about the movie that had so taken the reigns of my thoughts. I replayed the gritty fight scenes in my head, and the beautifully naive love triangle. The awkward line delivery and the wonderfully spiritual woodland scenes and inventive use of locations. And then it hit me; I felt like I had been looking at the sun without realizing where the light was coming from. It was James Bennett.
Fatal Deviation lends some insight into a personal journey, of a road chosen and taken that has a far greater resonance than the negative derision that has resounded rather unfairly in my opinion from some of the movies obvious constraints; a journey that has embryonic dreams fuelled by a powerful heart and an "iron will" that refuses to say no. James Bennett hunts his dreams with a rocket launcher. And to be honest, in my opinion, the man should be regarded as an inspiration.
Remember your classics? Dickens wrote about people like him. And speaking of classics, "No retreat No Surrender" probably one of the most underrated martial arts movies of all time springs to mind. I doubt if James will ever settle for meagre rations. I think he will always ask for more...
It's easy for some to stand in shadows, sum up an individual by their "so called" failures; it's harder for those same to bring those failures into the light; because bound only by fracturing testimony, we know most would crumble beneath even modest scrutiny. In the shadows, the finger never rotates inwards. I know because I lived there for a very long time.
I give it an 8/10.
Fatal Deviation was filmed in and around Trim Co, Meath.
James Bennett has a slew of credited and uncredited work, and is appearing with Johnny Depp and Timothy Hutton in a new movie about "The Lone Ranger".
You got dreams? Don't sit there and complain, or mock the decent people. Either get up or shut up. Or perhaps take a page from James... hunt them down with a rocket launcher.
Astonishing
scampisean7 January 2023
After watching this film I grew six inches in the trouser department.
Today is gonna be the day that they're gonna throw it back to you And by now, you should've somehow realised what you gotta do I don't believe that anybody feels the way I do about you now And backbeat, the word is on the street that the fire in your heart is out I'm sure you've heard it all before, but you never really had a doubt I don't believe that anybody feels the way I do about you now And all the roads we have to walk are winding And all the lights that lead us there are blinding There are many things that I would like to say to you, but I don't know how Because maybe You're gonna be the one that saves me And after all You're my wonderwall Today was gonna be the day, but they'll never throw it back to you And by now, you should've somehow realised what you're not to do I don't believe that anybody feels the way I do about you now And all the roads that lead you there were winding And all the lights that light the way are blinding There are many things that I would like to say to you, but I don't know how I said maybe You're gonna be the one that saves me And after all You're my wonderwall I said maybe (I said maybe) You're gonna be the one that saves me And after all You're my wonderwall I said maybe (I said maybe) You're gonna be the one that saves me (saves me) You're gonna be the one that saves me (saves me) You're gonna be the one that saves me (saves me)
Today is gonna be the day that they're gonna throw it back to you And by now, you should've somehow realised what you gotta do I don't believe that anybody feels the way I do about you now And backbeat, the word is on the street that the fire in your heart is out I'm sure you've heard it all before, but you never really had a doubt I don't believe that anybody feels the way I do about you now And all the roads we have to walk are winding And all the lights that lead us there are blinding There are many things that I would like to say to you, but I don't know how Because maybe You're gonna be the one that saves me And after all You're my wonderwall Today was gonna be the day, but they'll never throw it back to you And by now, you should've somehow realised what you're not to do I don't believe that anybody feels the way I do about you now And all the roads that lead you there were winding And all the lights that light the way are blinding There are many things that I would like to say to you, but I don't know how I said maybe You're gonna be the one that saves me And after all You're my wonderwall I said maybe (I said maybe) You're gonna be the one that saves me And after all You're my wonderwall I said maybe (I said maybe) You're gonna be the one that saves me (saves me) You're gonna be the one that saves me (saves me) You're gonna be the one that saves me (saves me)
A modern masterpiece
johnnycleary16 June 2020
I remember laughing at the idea of an Irish Kung Fu film set in Trim Co.Meath but after witnessing the cinematic genius of this motion picture I'm left awestruck. I would first like to commend the actors. All of them filled their roles to a standard that had not been seen in filmmaking before with nuanced traits that added a grey area to the typical good vs evil formula of your typical action film. James Bennett did an outstanding job as himself and very noticeably delivered all his lines with such smoothness that one would think that he wasn't even acting. The monks added an air of mystery to the film with the beautiful backdrop of trim making an amazing filming location as well. I could feel the magical presence that influenced James Bennett to pick up the noble sport of martial arts. The opening scene of the film is probably the best introduction to a character that I have ever seen in a motion picture. Now though being cinematic masterpiece it still is at the end of the day an action film and one would one would wonder before watching it what the action is like. And I'm not lying when I say that the action is on par, if not better than major Hollywood productions. Overall this film is a step forward for Irish filmmaking, as an Irishman myself I could enjoy the film on a deeper level that many foreign audiences might be incapable of but to everyone reading this review, I must say that this is one of the greatest achievements of filmmaking ever produced and is a must watch. I now make a pilgrimage to the town of trim every year to honour this landmark of film.
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