The upcoming Street Fighter movie, starring Noah Centineo as Ken, is packed with "hundreds" of Easter eggs and references designed to delight fans of the long-running video game series, according to Centineo himself. In a recent interview on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, the actor described the film as an "over-the-top" spectacle that "knows what it is" and embraces its source material.
Centineo expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting that the cast and crew had a "hell of a time making it." He believes this enjoyment will translate to the audience, calling it a "big spectacle, tentpole high-octane action film." His personal connection to the franchise stems from childhood memories of playing Street Fighter 2 with his cousins. The actor also shared an anecdote about a security guard who was particularly impressed after a screening, highlighting the positive reception from early viewers.
"If you're a fan of the game, I believe you're going to recognize the hundreds of Easter eggs and one-liners and signature moves and all the little intricate details that [director] Kitao and every single actor researched and worked to make sure that we just crammed, bookended it with these little Easter eggs," Centineo stated. This approach directly contrasts with Capcom's upcoming Resident Evil movie, which is said to be pursuing an independent narrative. The Street Fighter movie, on the other hand, appears to be a direct tribute to the games.
The trailers for the film had already suggested a strong connection to the games, but Centineo's comments solidify the intention to create a "campy yet endearing tribute." The film is set to release in theaters on October 16.