The Art of Self-Defense movie poster

The Art of Self-Defense

2019 · 1h 44m · Released

R Comedy, Thriller, Drama, Mystery

Casey is attacked at random on the street and enlists in a local dojo led by a charismatic and mysterious Sensei in an effort to learn how to defend himself. What he uncovers is a sinister world of fraternity, violence and hypermasculinity and a woman fighting for her place in it.

6.6 The Movie Database

Where to stream The Art of Self-Defense

Streaming now in the United States on JustWatch TV Plus, JustWatch TV Free, Kanopy, Hoopla, Fandango at Home Free, and Plex.

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Rent or buy in the United States on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home.

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Trailers and promos

Official Trailer
Official Teaser Trailer
Punch with Your Foot
Really Glad You're Here
You Came to the Right Place
Sensei
Special Belts
Grand Master

Top cast and crew

Riley Stearns Director
Jesse Eisenberg Casey
Alessandro Nivola Sensei
Imogen Poots Anna
Steve Terada Thomas
David Zellner Henry
Phillip Andre Botello Kennith
Jason Burkey Alex
MB Mike Brooks Steve
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Frequently asked questions about The Art of Self-Defense

Where can I watch The Art of Self-Defense in the United States?

The Art of Self-Defense is available to stream on JustWatch TV Plus, JustWatch TV Free, Kanopy, Hoopla, Fandango at Home Free, and Plex in the United States, and to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. Streaming availability is provided by JustWatch and can change over time.

Can I watch The Art of Self-Defense for free?

The Art of Self-Defense streams free with ads in the United States on JustWatch TV Free, Kanopy, Hoopla, and Fandango at Home Free. A subscription is not required, though the service may ask you to register.

What are the ratings for The Art of Self-Defense?

The Art of Self-Defense scores 6.6 on The Movie Database.

Who stars in The Art of Self-Defense?

The Art of Self-Defense stars Jesse Eisenberg, Alessandro Nivola, Imogen Poots, Steve Terada, and David Zellner. Riley Stearns is the director.

How long is The Art of Self-Defense?

The Art of Self-Defense runs 1h 44m (104 minutes).

When did The Art of Self-Defense come out?

The Art of Self-Defense was released on July 12, 2019.

Which studio made The Art of Self-Defense?

The Art of Self-Defense was produced by End Cue in the United States.

What was the budget for The Art of Self-Defense?

The Art of Self-Defense was made on a budget of $1,800,000.

How much did The Art of Self-Defense make at the box office?

The Art of Self-Defense grossed $2,400,000 worldwide, against a budget of $1,800,000.

What languages is The Art of Self-Defense in?

The Art of Self-Defense is in English, French, German, and Spanish, and its original language is English.

Ratings and metadata from The Movie Database (TMDB), streaming data from JustWatch. This product uses the TMDB API but is not endorsed or certified by TMDB. Streaming availability checked November 2026.

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