Johannes “Joe” Taslim is a distinguished Indonesian actor, martial artist, and model whose career has spanned various facets of the entertainment industry. He first gained recognition as a member of Indonesia’s national judo team from 1997 to 2009, where he showcased his athletic prowess by winning multiple medals, including a Gold at the 2008 Pekan Olahraga Nasional. His dedication to martial arts laid a strong foundation for his transition into acting, where he would leverage his combat skills to captivate audiences.
Taslim made his film debut in 2008 with the movie “Karma,” but it was his role as Sergeant Jaka in the critically acclaimed film “The Raid” (2011) that catapulted him to international fame. His performance in this action-packed thriller was met with widespread acclaim, leading to further opportunities in Hollywood. He showcased his versatility by portraying the villainous Jah in “Fast & Furious 6” (2013) and the alien antagonist Manas in “Star Trek Beyond” (2016), both of which highlighted his ability to engage audiences through dynamic action sequences.
In addition to his film work, Taslim has made significant contributions to television, most notably as Li Yong in the Cinemax series “Warrior.” His portrayal of a complex character involved in a web of rivalries and romance added depth to the series, which premiered in 2019 and has garnered a dedicated fanbase.
Taslim’s most recent achievement includes his role as Sub-Zero in the highly anticipated “Mortal Kombat” reboot, released in 2021. His commitment to his craft and ability to perform intricate fight choreography have solidified his status as a leading figure in action cinema, making him a prominent ambassador for Indonesian talent on the global stage.