FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION: Watch Godefroy Ryckewaert's Thrilling Martial Arts Crime Twofer, SHADOW OF 13

It was back in 2004 I got my first computer and it was then that my own affinity for martial arts movies grew extensively into the world of online independent action films. This very appreciation is a large part of what currently shapes me as a writer, and so I'm taking to Screen Anarchy to share one such two-part piece from French actor, martial artist and filmmmaker Godefroy Ryckewaert who I've been following for more than two-and-a-half years now. For this, I bring you his terrific pairing with French/Cambodian actor and stuntman Daren Nop's definitive shortfilm debut, Shadow Of 13, the story of a young homeless man who proves to be more than meets the eye for criminal underworld of Paris's 13th district.

There are two parts to this with the first timed at over five minutes and the other at over seventeen, and I have to say though, So13 1and 2 are pure fun to watch, the first part is what really anchors my support for this project in whole. There's action, suspense, emotive drama and a sense of depth that actually speaks to you in ways that most others films WISH they could. There's a signature energy placed here that makes Nop one of the best performers and film professionals I've ever written about, and all the more rewarding with the appearances of his parents in the first part, and his equally-talented brother David, in addition to the spectacular stunt stylings of Cascade Demo Team. Actor Alain Figlarz, known as an industry stunt coordinator for films like Taken 2 and The Transporter Refueled, has a small supporting role in the second part of this foray that really adds something fun and interesting to the dark and thrilling millieu we're placed in with this project. Nop actually took this project to Cannes last year and there's no telling yet if this could get a series or its own film. I do know that there have been murmurs of a third shortfilm installment and only time will tell if this actually becomes something, but all I know is that I want this to be a movie franchise REALLY bad. We could really use a martial arts franchise with the right people who know how to translate exciting action and fight choreography through the lens, and Ryckewaert has more than proven himself on that end as he now sets off to Cambodia for the production of Hanuman helmer Jimmy Henderson's new action comedy, Jailbreak as the director of photography. I'll say no more, but will add that if you want proof that quality action exists, you will find it when you press play below. Remember though - it's a YouTube playlist and there are two parts. Enjoy!