Jean-Claude Van Damme shines in The Last Mercenary on Netflix, offering a fresh take on his action-hero reputation in this energetic French comedy. Released in 2021, the movie sees Van Damme return to leading man status with a role that both honors his legacy and displays his comedic skills, capturing the attention of fans both old and new.
Known as ‘The Muscles From Brussels,’ Jean-Claude Van Damme made a huge impact in the action genre throughout the 1990s and is celebrated for his dynamic martial arts performances. Following his breakout as Frank Dux in the 1988 classic Bloodsport, he has continuously demonstrated his range, tackling roles in action blockbusters, thrillers, and comedies. From playing heroic characters in Universal Soldier to portraying a memorable villain alongside other action legends in The Expendables 2, Van Damme’s varied filmography highlights his adaptability and influence.
Action and Comedy Merge Seamlessly in Van Damme’s Latest Netflix Role
Van Damme initially captivated audiences with his unmatched karate and kickboxing talent in martial arts classics, but his willingness to explore humor has shaped his career’s later stages. This flair for comedy was previously on display in the semi-autobiographical JCVD, the genre-bending Welcome to the Jungle, and his voice role as Jean Clawed in Minions: The Rise of Gru. It was a natural evolution for Van Damme to embrace both action and comedic elements in The Last Mercenary.
In this fast-paced film, he stars as Richard Brumère, a skilled former Secret Service operative who races back to France after learning his estranged son is wrongfully accused of drug offenses. Brumère, master of disguise, embarks on his mission using quirky wigs and various personas, transforming each scene into a playful spectacle. The movie’s witty style relies as much on Van Damme’s physical comedy and costume antics as it does on its choreographed fight scenes and intentionally over-the-top dialogue, quickly winning over audiences who appreciate both humor and action.
References and Humor Reward Dedicated Fans
While The Last Mercenary’s wild story is accessible to fans unfamiliar with Van Damme’s earlier work, it is especially rewarding for those who know his cinematic past. Throughout the film, Van Damme’s character delivers the star’s trademark splits—a nod to one of his most famous moves—delighting loyal fans. The producers fill the movie with clever references to Van Damme’s previous roles, creating a treasure hunt for longtime viewers.
The parade of wigs worn by Van Damme throughout the adventure recall various periods in his career, including a deliberate homage to his mullet as Chance Boudreaux in Hard Target. The film also gives a wink to the cult classic Bloodsport when Brumère lands a groin punch, referencing the memorable Frank Dux versus Pumola fight. These playful touches anchor the movie in Van Damme’s unique style, making it a satisfying watch for devoted enthusiasts eager to spot every nod to his past performances.
The Last Mercenary’s sense of fun is amplified by its willingness to lampoon both the action and comedy genres, with Van Damme never shying away from making fun of his own on-screen persona built up over decades. This approach brings a self-aware charm that both parodies and pays tribute to his long-standing place in movie history.
Netflix’s Underrated Gem Showcases Van Damme’s Versatility
Despite its less-publicized release, The Last Mercenary has quickly become recognized as a high point in Van Damme’s filmography. The movie stands out not only for its thrilling action set pieces but also for the lighthearted energy that Van Damme brings to his role, demonstrating that he remains both a capable action star and a genuine comedic talent.
Alongside Van Damme, cast members Patrick Timsit and Samir Decazza help round out the film, adding layers to the fast-paced story and complementing the energetic lead performance. The chemistry between the cast supports the movie’s unique blend of action and humor, making the adventure engaging for a new generation and loyal fans alike.
For those seeking nostalgia, laughs, or heart-pumping action, The Last Mercenary delivers on every front. Jean-Claude Van Damme, with his willingness to reinvent and poke fun at himself, reminds viewers why he remains an enduring figure in global action cinema. As the film finds its audience on Netflix, it cements Van Damme’s status—not just as a martial arts icon, but as a performer confident enough to celebrate and parody his own legacy. The Last Mercenary is essential viewing for anyone who wants to experience Van Damme at the top of his game, blending action and comedy in a way only he can achieve.
