Movie Review: JCVD

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Jean Claude Van Damme. The name alone sparks all kinds of reactions. Bad acting. Bad scripts. Just plain bad all the way around. But, he still has a loyal fan base. Must be all the butt kickin’. We were lucky enough to catch a screening of the upcoming JCVD. The film has been traveling Film Festivals and creating all kinds of buzz from critics. Sometimes buzz doesn’t live up to all the hype…but in this case, it certainly does.

This is by far and foremost, Jean Claude’s best role to date. Not only in terms of his performance, but for his own personal accomplishment. JCVD is a movie inside a movie. Van Damme plays himself in a sort of alternate reality where every thing doesn’t go quite as well for him as in the movies. He’s broke and fighting for custody of his daughter. He doesn’t particularly like what he’s become. He’s filled with self doubt and quite a bit of self loathing.

If you go into the theater expecting the usual Van Dammeage…you’re going to be really disappointed. This is a drama first and foremost. It does have some action and it does have some funny moments. But, this is Van Damme delivering a big round house kick to everyone in the audience…but in a good way.

Jean Claude makes sure that no one is safe in this thing. All your expectations are turned around. The man can act. Plus, he can still do a full split. And yes, even Steven Seagal’s ponytail gets kicked around a conversation in one of the lighter scenes.

Check this puppy out when you get a chance. Then make some popcorn and rent Universal Soldier. You will not believe it’s the same guy. Of course, you better or Van Damme will be waiting.

Comments

  1. Andrew H December 12, 2008

    Oh its about Van Damme? I

    Oh its about Van Damme? I though JCVD was about Jesus getting the clap.

  2. paul suggett

    paul suggett December 12, 2008

    Van Douche.

    Van Douche.

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