Women’s Kickboxing Australia
formerly ‘Killer Instinct’

A short observational documentary pilot by Philippe Charluet, originally made for ABC TV (now widescreen reformatted episodes). Whilst less popular when compared to men’s participation, it is nevertheless now legal in all Australian states for women to partake in this sport.

Kickboxing is a highly skilled, violent and sometime bloody sport. Men can justify this desire – the hunger to fight – and we accept it as a primeval male characteristic. But what of young women who have chosen to take up kickboxing competitively. Where does their courage come from? What motivates them to overcome their fear of injury and fight with the brutal anger of a man? Where do they find that “killer instinct”?

These are the stories of three fearless and determined women and their male trainer/promoter. Each must find their own way to balance the intense demands and ferocities of Kickboxing with society’s perception of femininity and humanity. Each must overcome the psychological and physical barriers on their quest to victory.

Not for the faint hearted, this fascinating underworld is charged with adrenalin, aggression, brute strength, blood, sweat and tears. The roar of the crowd as the opponents enter the ring, the dull thud of a kick aimed at the face of a beautiful woman. So controversial is this sport for women, that some states have banned it completely. Yet, despite its violence, Kickboxing can be gracefully athletic.

HOLLY, “The Wild Cat”, is a professional kickboxer; she’s a lean mean fighting machine who is determined to win the World Title and keep it. Striking the balance between being a mother of a one year old and a world class fighter will be her finest achievement but at what cost?

JAY owns a Melbourne gym where he trains both his sister Jale as well as Trish and several men. Immersed in the kickboxing scene, Jay is also an emerging and ambitious fight promoter, organising 4 to 5 big events a year. Jale is a vehicle for Jay to realise his dream of training a World Title holder.

JALE, “The Turkish Tiger”, was recently knocked-out while fighting for the Commonwealth Title; so distressed was her mother that she collapsed while the doctor tended her unconscious daughter. Jale’s ears are still ringing but she is determined to continue fighting, encouraged by her fast-talking charismatic brother, Jay.

TRISH is the youngest child in a large Italian family; they are horrified at her decision to take up kickboxing. Seeking their approval is the biggest challenge she has ever had to face. She is determined to prove herself in the ring but… does she have what it takes to win and is it worth the risk?

Killer Instinct examines the strength and weaknesses that cuts these people apart. Through the intimate portrayal of their family life, their unconventional relationships, opportunities, cultures and backgrounds, we discover the hidden agendas behind their incredible choice to fight.

See episode #1 in Videos Tab above