Despite being famously known as one of the ’80s and ’90s biggest action stars, such as when he was referred to as “The Muscles From Brussels,” many might find it surprising that Jean-Claude Van Damme’s best acting performance can be found in the relatively unknown Netflix film titled “The Last Mercenary.” This movie showcases the actor’s humorous take on his reputation for blending martial arts with various genres, a trait he first demonstrated in his debut role as the real-life fighter Frank Dux in “Bloodsport” back in 1988. Throughout his career, Van Damme has consistently provided adrenaline-fueled action alongside comedy, sci-fi, and thriller elements across a variety of films.
Jean-Claude Van Damme has shone as a hero in iconic films like “Universal Soldier” and even stepped into the role of a villain alongside other action movie legends in “The Expendables 2.” Throughout his career, he’s poked fun at his on-screen persona with amusing cameos and taken satire to another level by playing a fictionalized version of himself in the cult comedy “JCVD.” However, an often overlooked film that encapsulates various aspects of his cinematic legacy is the offbeat French-language comedy “The Last Mercenary” from 2021.
JCVD Delivers Both Action & Comedy In The Last Mercenary
Van Damme Proves His Talents For Both Genres In This Netflix Film
Jean-Claude Van Damme’s professional journey started by displaying his exceptional karate and kickboxing abilities in martial arts films that are now iconic. Over time, he has grown more comfortable with humor, a shift evident in the meta semi-biopic JCVD, light comedies like Welcome to the Jungle, and as the voice of Jean Clawed in Minions: The Rise of Gru. Given his diverse resume, it was logical for Van Damme to explore his more playful character in the film The Last Mercenary.
In the movie titled “The Last Mercenary“, Jean-Claude Van Damme portrays Richard Brumère, a former Secret Service agent who rushes back to France upon learning that his son has been unjustly accused of drug trafficking. To fit in discreetly, Brumère dons several wigs and assumes various disguises during his thrilling mission to exonerate his son. The outrageous costumes Van Damme sports, coupled with the film’s impressive fight scenes and over-the-top dialogue, make “The Last Mercenary” a highly entertaining must-see movie.
The Last Mercenary Is Even Better For Longtime JCVD Fans
Van Damme Hilariously Pokes Fun At His Career And Legacy
In simpler terms, “The Last Mercenary” is an entertaining French action comedy for those not familiar with Jean-Claude Van Damme’s past work, but it’s particularly amusing for fans who have followed his career closely. And yes, you guessed it – Van Damme demonstrates his iconic split move in this film as well, a move that has been featured numerous times throughout his acting career. This movie is filled with references to Van Damme’s films, making it an enjoyable challenge for observant viewers to spot all the nods to his past work.
In a scene reminiscent of Bloodsport, Brumère’s punch to his opponent’s sensitive area echoed a similar fight involving Frank Dux and Pumola. Notably, Jean-Claude Van Damme’s various wigs in the movie were nods to hairstyles he sported as a martial arts star, like his iconic greasy mullet as Chance Boudreaux in Hard Target. These subtle tributes to Van Damme’s career made The Last Mercenary a must-watch for dedicated fans of the Belgian action hero.
In 2021, The Last Mercenary made its debut on Netflix with minimal hype, but it has become the standout performance of Jean-Claude Van Damme’s entire career. This film showcases that he is still capable of providing both laughter and excitement in equal measure. With a playful attitude and a self-deprecating approach to his public persona from the 1990s, it’s refreshing to see an action star who isn’t shy about poking fun at his legacy. Fans of Van Damme are sure to enjoy The Last Mercenary on Netflix.
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2025-06-04 17:07