The Philly Kid (2012)

Philly Kid (2012) is an American drama film directed by Jason Connery and produced by After Dark Films. Written by Adam Mervis, the movie was shot in Baton Rouge, Louisiana starting in May 2011. Its production team included around ten department heads associated with the Wright State University film program or Dayton, Ohio. The film received an ‘R’ rating from MPAA and hit theaters on May 11, 2012. It was also part of the After Dark Action bundle and had a simultaneous video on demand release. While it received mixed reviews, Variety noted that it provided standard entertainment for a guys’ night in, with solid performances and direction from Connery. However, lacking distinct features to elevate it above typical competence.

The trio of underage friends, Chase, Jake, and Dillon, had their lives turned upside down when their beer purchase attempt ended in tragedy. Chase lost his life, Jake was injured by a gunshot, and Dillon was sent to prison for manslaughter. After serving a decade behind bars, Dillon was welcomed back into society by Jake who helped him secure a job and introduced him to the world of minor league MMA fighting. In order to pay off Jake’s considerable gambling debt and prevent any harm from coming his way, Dillon reluctantly agrees to participate in three fights. However, he soon finds himself caught in a tangled web involving dangerous gangsters, corrupt police officers, an unscrupulous promoter, a judgmental parole officer, and Jake’s disapproving sister.