Redbelt

The film begins at a Jiu-Jitsu academy where Mike Terry instructs his advanced class using a unique method. Each participant draws a marble to determine their fate in sparring, with black marbles resulting in a handicap, showing Mike's innovative approach to training.

Joe, a police officer aiming for a black belt, draws a black marble and faces a challenging sparring match with his hands tied. Despite his skill, he struggles to escape a chokehold and is consoled by Mike, who urges him to focus better to improve.

While driving in heavy rain, Laura loses focus due to her phone and accidentally sideswipes a parked truck. This incident ultimately leads her to the Jiu-Jitsu academy, setting off a chain of events that will affect all involved.

Inside the Jiu-Jitsu academy, Laura accidentally grabs Joe's sidearm, which discharges and shatters the front window. This shocking incident leaves Mike and Joe in disbelief, highlighting how quickly fear can take control.

In the aftermath of the gun incident, Mike and Joe decide to conceal the truth, fearing that Laura could be charged with attempted murder. They concoct a story that turns the event into an 'act of God' to protect her.

The tension rises at the academy due to mounting financial troubles, with Mike's wife Sondra urging him to seek help from her brother, Ricardo. This decision underscores the strain on their relationship as they navigate the looming threat of bankruptcy.

Mike visits Ricardo at his club looking for financial support. During his time there, he witnesses a magician's performance that captures his attention, connecting his interest in the unexpected with the ongoing issues at the academy.

Following a confrontation involving Chet Frank, a fading Hollywood action star, he gifts Mike a lavish watch and invites him to dinner. Mike gifts the watch to Joe, urging him to pawn it to help alleviate his own financial struggles.

Laura comes back to the academy to make amends for the broken window and to sign up for lessons, showing her desire to take responsibility. This marks the beginning of her transformation through Mike's unique training methods.

As Mike trains Laura, she shares her traumatic past, which leads to an emotional moment where Mike demonstrates self-defense techniques. This breakthrough not only helps Laura but also reinforces Mike's dedication to teaching.

Joe faces disciplinary action at work when it's revealed that the watch he pawned was stolen. This revelation creates conflict between him and Mike, compounding the already tense atmosphere stemming from their earlier decisions.

Mike discovers that Sondra's fashion business is struggling due to poor contact information for Chet's associates. This financial strain highlights the precarious situation they are in, further complicating their lives.

Consumed by guilt from the unresolved turmoil, Joe tragically takes his own life, leaving his wife and friends devastated. This loss creates a ripple effect, challenging Mike to confront harsh realities about his own choices.

Feeling a deep sense of responsibility following Joe's death, Mike makes the difficult choice to fight in the upcoming event. This marks a turning point as he abandons his strict code of honor for the sake of financial survival.

In an emotionally charged match, Mike defeats Ricardo, revealing the manipulation behind the fight. He receives an emblematic ivory-studded belt and the coveted Redbelt, solidifying his reputation as a true disciple of the martial arts.