Why So Blu?

Affinity (Movie Review)

Affinity (2025) is a sci-fi action thriller from director Brandon Slagle, headlined by Chilean martial-arts star Marko Zaror. In this Affinity (2025) movie review, we follow Bruno, an ex-Navy SEAL haunted by PTSD, who must confront a shocking conspiracy when the woman he loves mysteriously disappears. With a mix of combat, suspense, and science-fiction intrigue, the film aims to keep audiences on edge.

 

I’ve been a fan of Marko Zaror for years. My introduction came with Mandrill, a film that showcased his now-iconic Guile-from-Street Fighter II “moon kick.” What’s always struck me about Zaror is his rare blend of elegance and brutality — he glides through choreography with a dancer’s grace but lands every strike like a hammer. He’s part Jean-Claude Van Damme, part Scott Adkins, and all his own. More recently, his duel with Josh Hartnett in Fight or Flight stood out as a highlight, and of course, he’s fresh off appearances in John Wick: Chapter 4 and projects with Robert Rodriguez. On paper, Affinity should be his chance to shine as a leading man.

The problem is that Affinity doesn’t seem to know what kind of movie it wants to be. This Affinity (2025) movie review has to point out that while it’s marketed as a straightforward action vehicle, the film tries to juggle PTSD drama, romance, sci-fi mystery, and conspiracy all at once. At just 80 minutes, the story doesn’t have the space it needs, leaving plot threads undercooked and emotional beats rushed.

That said, the movie does occasionally tap into what fans came for. Zaror’s fight scenes are handled with care, showcasing the physical intensity and sharp timing that have earned him a loyal following. When the fists fly, the film briefly comes alive. Adding to that, the Thai locations lend some welcome atmosphere,  busy streets, moody interiors, and striking landscapes help elevate the production design. For a smaller-budget film, it looks good enough to stand beside more polished studio fare, even if the story doesn’t quite match.

The pacing, though, is where the cracks really show. By the halfway mark, Affinity feels like it’s sprinting toward its climax without ever establishing stakes that stick. Supporting characters vanish as quickly as they appear, and the conspiracy element feels more like a placeholder than a revelation. Instead of building suspense, the narrative skips ahead, leaving audiences more confused than compelled. What should feel urgent ends up rushed and scattershot.

In the end, Affinity has a certain retro charm, recalling the kinds of VHS-ready action thrillers that filled shelves in the 80s and 90s. Back then, the promise was simple: show up, watch the hero kick some ass, and leave satisfied. This film hits that bare minimum, but little more. For diehard Marko Zaror fans, it may be worth the watch just to see him in the spotlight again. For everyone else, it’s a passable curiosity, enjoyable in moments, but forgettable once the credits roll.

 

                                                                   

 

 

 

Affinity, debuts on Digital September 30 from Well Go USA Entertainment.

Affinity hits Blu-ray and DVD exclusively through Amazon on September 30, 2025.