Silly, predictable action movie is definitely topical and does deliver for formula fans. It's got a tough as nails hero, a story with some actual poignancy, and villains we'll love to see get what they deserve. It's got enough bloody squib action, various objects exploding into huge fireballs, and striking Philippines scenery to make it a pretty good time for fans of the genre.
Chuck Norris once again essays the role of former Vietnam war P.o.W. James Braddock, who during the fall of Saigon tries to escape with his Vietnamese born wife Lin Tan Cang (Miki Kim). But she's forced to stay behind when she loses her papers during the melee, and Braddock is led to believe that she perished. 12 years later, he learns that not only is she still alive, but that they'd sired a son, Van (Roland Harrah III). Knowing full well that his government won't try to help him (they even try to STOP him), Braddock travels to Asia to retrieve his family and bring them home.
This is NOT bottom of the barrel fare for the genre. It's certainly watchable, with expert action scenes and stunts. Chucks' brother and sometime director Aaron Norris, who'd been stunt coordinator on the first two flicks, does alright. The movie, written by James Bruner & Chuck himself, has some real heart. Of course, it might have even more if Chuck were more of an actor. But I digress. Chuck still reigns supreme as an ass kicker, and it's never in any doubt that he'll rise up righteous and snuff out the lives of such despicable scum as the Vietnamese general Quoc (Aki Aleong). Aleong is great fun, especially as he spits out the heros' name after the latest amount of damage done. The supporting cast is decent if somewhat nondescript. However, be sure to look for the eternally awesome Keith David in a small role as an Embassy gate captain.
An entertaining diversion, made in the mold of "Uncommon Valor", "Rambo: First Blood Part II"...and "Commando", for that matter, with a good guy who's an army unto himself.
Seven out of 10.
Chuck Norris once again essays the role of former Vietnam war P.o.W. James Braddock, who during the fall of Saigon tries to escape with his Vietnamese born wife Lin Tan Cang (Miki Kim). But she's forced to stay behind when she loses her papers during the melee, and Braddock is led to believe that she perished. 12 years later, he learns that not only is she still alive, but that they'd sired a son, Van (Roland Harrah III). Knowing full well that his government won't try to help him (they even try to STOP him), Braddock travels to Asia to retrieve his family and bring them home.
This is NOT bottom of the barrel fare for the genre. It's certainly watchable, with expert action scenes and stunts. Chucks' brother and sometime director Aaron Norris, who'd been stunt coordinator on the first two flicks, does alright. The movie, written by James Bruner & Chuck himself, has some real heart. Of course, it might have even more if Chuck were more of an actor. But I digress. Chuck still reigns supreme as an ass kicker, and it's never in any doubt that he'll rise up righteous and snuff out the lives of such despicable scum as the Vietnamese general Quoc (Aki Aleong). Aleong is great fun, especially as he spits out the heros' name after the latest amount of damage done. The supporting cast is decent if somewhat nondescript. However, be sure to look for the eternally awesome Keith David in a small role as an Embassy gate captain.
An entertaining diversion, made in the mold of "Uncommon Valor", "Rambo: First Blood Part II"...and "Commando", for that matter, with a good guy who's an army unto himself.
Seven out of 10.