Review of JCVD (2008) by Chris B — 06 Feb 2014

JCVD is a very unique film and one that unfolds rather unconventionally and takes a look at Jean-Claude Van Damme as a man, not just an action hero and film star. While the film can be hit-or-miss and peculiar at times, Jean-Claude delivers a heartfelt performance as himself of course.

To me the film was a little strange with regard to its style and narrative structure but no matter your opinion of the film, you can't say it's unoriginal. What starts out as a documentary-style look at the star's life slowly but surely becomes into an offbeat thriller film involving a group of men who take Jean-Claude and others in a bank hostage in order to make demands.

While it has a very unique and off-kilter style, I found it a bit too self-indulgent with a lot of gimmicky dialogue throughout the film. If you are looking for something different then check out Jean-Claude's performance in JCVD, it's certainly a new side of the actor's repertoire and a solid performance despite the film's shortcomings.