Today marks the 30th anniversary of the premiere of Street Fighter, the 1994 action-packed adaptation of the legendary Capcom video game. Released on December 23, 1994, the film quickly earned its place as a cult classic, remembered for its over-the-top performances, campy charm, and unforgettable one-liners. 
Starring Jean-Claude Van Damme as Colonel Guile and the late Raúl Juliá in his final film role as the villainous M. Bison, Street Fighter brought the video game’s colorful characters to life in a way that remains iconic to this day. Juliá’s portrayal of M. Bison is particularly revered, blending Shakespearean gravitas with comic book absurdity. His now-famous line, “For you, the day Bison graced your village was the most important day of your life. But for me, it was Tuesday,” has become a cultural touchstone.
Directed by Steven E. de Souza, Street Fighter took creative liberties with its source material, crafting a plot that united a diverse cast of characters in an epic battle against Bison’s tyranny. While the film received mixed reviews at the time of its release, fans have embraced its quirks, and it remains a nostalgic favorite for gamers and 90s action movie enthusiasts.
Beyond its camp appeal, the film is remembered for its ambitious production, unique costume designs, and unforgettable soundtrack, which featured artists like Ice Cube and Public Enemy.
As Street Fighter celebrates 30 years, it serves as a reminder of an era when video game movies were just beginning to carve out their place in Hollywood. Whether you love it for its unintentional humor or its sincere attempts to honor its source material, there’s no denying the lasting impact of this cult classic. Here’s to three decades of Street Fighter!
