On May 3, 1985, the martial arts action film Gymkata was released in theaters. Directed by Robert Clouse, the movie starred Olympic gymnast Kurt Thomas as a U.S. athlete recruited by the government to compete in a deadly international competition in a fictional country.
Gymkata gained attention for its unusual blend of gymnastics and martial arts, which created a style that was both unique and unintentionally campy. Despite earning just 5.7 million dollars at the box office, the film went on to achieve cult status among fans of 80s action and so bad it’s good cinema.
Fun fact: Gymkata was the first and only major film role for Kurt Thomas, who had won gold at the World Gymnastics Championships before turning to acting.
Gymkata gained attention for its unusual blend of gymnastics and martial arts, which created a style that was both unique and unintentionally campy. Despite earning just 5.7 million dollars at the box office, the film went on to achieve cult status among fans of 80s action and so bad it’s good cinema.
Fun fact: Gymkata was the first and only major film role for Kurt Thomas, who had won gold at the World Gymnastics Championships before turning to acting.
