Ulterior Motives 1993
"You've seen Seagal, Van Damme and Norris. Now...meet the new contender"
In the gritty streets of early-90s action cinema, enterprising private investigator Jack Miller steps into an unexpected role as personal protector to a determined journalist caught in the crossfire of a ruthless Japanese mob.
Director: James Becket
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ulterior Motives (1993) about?
A tough private eye turns bodyguard when he's hired to protect a journalist targeted by a powerful Japanese crime syndicate. Forced into a high-stakes chase through the city, he must use both brains and fists to keep her alive while uncovering the hidden motives behind the pursuit.
Who directed Ulterior Motives?
James Becket directed this 1993 action-drama, bringing a no-nonsense approach to its mix of private eye noir and martial arts action.
Who stars in Ulterior Motives?
The film features Thomas Ian Griffith as the lead private eye, alongside Mary Page Keller, Jeff Imada, Toshishiro Obata, and martial arts stars James Lew and Roger Yuan.
Is Ulterior Motives (1993) worth watching?
As a mid-90s action entry, Ulterior Motives delivers solid fight choreography and a grounded crime story, ideal for fans of early martial arts and detective films. While it may not reach the heights of bigger franchises, its tight runtime and energetic performances make it a solid pick for genre enthusiasts.
How long is Ulterior Motives?
Ulterior Motives runs for 91 minutes, packing a punch in just over an hour and a half.
About Ulterior Motives (1993) — A 90s Action Drama Where a PI Takes on the Mob
In the gritty streets of early-90s action cinema, enterprising private investigator Jack Miller steps into an unexpected role as personal protector to a determined journalist caught in the crossfire of a ruthless Japanese mob. Directed by James Becket, this 1993 thriller blends hard-hitting action with sharp dramatic edges, as Miller's straightforward world clashes with the shadowy underworld pursuing his charge. The film crackles with tension, weaving intrigue and bruising fight sequences into a tense urban chase that refuses to let go.
Ulterior Motives moves at a relentless pace, fueled by Thomas Ian Griffith's magnetic lead performance and supported by a steely ensemble including Mary Page Keller as the journalist in peril and martial arts icons Jeff Imada and Toshishiro Obata raising the action stakes. With its blend of crime drama and martial arts spectacle, the film captures the raw energy of underworld clashes and the quiet resolve of those who stand against them. Expect a fusion of suspense, stylish violence, and moral ambiguity wrapped in a tight 91-minute runtime.