Another of Van Damme's best before he hit the big time, with a story written by himself. Again we have a revenge plot, but this time there is more depth as Van Damme's character Lyon is trying to help his brother, and his brother's wife and daughter from eviction etc. When he hears of his brother's problems he flees the Foreign Legion, a rather large crime, and goes to America to help. Of course, the Legion sends some tough guys after him who he must constantly evade. In order to earn money for his new family he becomes an underground fighter, managed by a likable bum called Joshua. The become close friends, and Lyon gains recognition as a talented fighter, rising through the underground ranks. The money is never enough though, and he cannot tell his brother's wife how he is getting it. A leading, rich promoter called Cynthia has noticed his talents and decides to take arrange fights for him, meaning his money increases. However Cynthia is of course wicked and only in the game for her herself. She pits Lyon against Atilla, the most fierce fighter there is, but she fixes the fight so that all bets will go to her. Lyon must defeat Atilla, but he may lose all his money in doing so.
The fights here are good, well staged and filmed, and there are some good performances. Van Damme is his usual self, but Page and Rennard add some skill to the proceedings, raising it above the average martial arts movie. Pelikan gets our sympathy as the young wife, and Johnson is okay as the daughter. There are enough simple twists to keep us happy and the plot has its cheesy charm. There is some good dialogue which will get a few laughs. Another must for Van Damme fans, this one will appeal to a wider audience also and is worth a look.
7.5 out of 10
The fights here are good, well staged and filmed, and there are some good performances. Van Damme is his usual self, but Page and Rennard add some skill to the proceedings, raising it above the average martial arts movie. Pelikan gets our sympathy as the young wife, and Johnson is okay as the daughter. There are enough simple twists to keep us happy and the plot has its cheesy charm. There is some good dialogue which will get a few laughs. Another must for Van Damme fans, this one will appeal to a wider audience also and is worth a look.
7.5 out of 10