Action spectacle Topakk, directed by Richard V. Somes, has set the stage for an exciting cinematic experience. The film, which premieres at the Locarno Film Festival, follows a man struggling with PTSD, caught in a conflict between a drug peddler and a vigilante death squad. Somes explains his inspiration:

I am really inspired by the 1980s action films. It all started with First Blood or even Commando. In my films, I always want this kind of character too. Someone who is very flawed, very human. Not invincible at all.

Portraying the protagonist Miguel, Arjo Atayde showcases a different kind of action hero:

I wanted him to be someone who is strong on the inside, not necessarily on the outside. Miguel doesn’t see himself as a hero, he is not there to save the day. He can just promise her that if they go down, at least they are going to take someone with them.

Somes highlights the film’s grounded approach to action:

We wanted to make it more visceral, raw. We are doing it the old-school way.

Beyond thrilling action, Topakk also pays tribute to strong female characters, including Julia Montes’ street-smart portrayal:

My female characters aren’t victims, they have bled, they have been hurt, but they survived. And now, they fight. It’s personal for me, because I was raised by a single mother.

Addressing the film’s deeper message, Somes aims to honor soldiers worldwide:

We’ve had a whole decade of wars. A whole lot of casualties, a whole lot of bloodshed. We tend to forget that when these soldiers come back home, part of their life has already changed. They deserve our respect.

Topakk promises to deliver an authentic and thought-provoking action experience, celebrating the complexity of human resilience and strength amidst challenging circumstances. Watch the trailer below!