This has always been a childhood favorite of mine. I recently saw it again, found it funny how little action there actually was in it, but as a kid I didn't seem bothered by it. Dudikoff is great in the title role, I would like to compare him with a contemporary actor, but having difficulty with that, he never became really well known actually. American Ninja has some great sequences when Dudikoff sets out for revenge, and kicks ass ninja style in the 2nd part. I really enjoy this film, and it must have done something right back then, because it spawned several sequels as well.

A-

For me, this is a poor man's Bloodsport and Kickboxer.

I remember loving this 25 years ago but I bet it is cheap crap that I would hate now. I vaguely remember him jumping into a pit with his regular raiment and immediately jumping out with his ninja gear on. Or maybe that was one of the sequels.

Kickboxer is still good.