Review of The Bouncer

As I indicated in my summary line, those who sit down to watch this movie expecting the flashy and action-packed tone that was in Jean-Claude Van Damme movies of the past will probably be disappointed with this movie. There isn't that much action on display here, and it's not depicted with great intensity or excitement. But I was kind of expecting that, seeing that Van Damme is getting on in years, and also because the movie was a European production and not a Hollywood production. And I did find the movie had enough merit to make me glad I picked it up from my local library. The action may not be high energy, but what action there is is interesting to watch, because it's choreographed and directed in a manner that seems much more realistic than usual. You do sense genuine struggle, and feel the coldness when someone is injured or killed. Some of the action is also directed with long Steadicam shots that adds novelty and interest. Script-wise, I admit the movie is nothing too special, seeing that the story unfolds in a familiar manner, including the so-called "surprise twist" near the end. But the movie does move along fairly briskly, and isn't boring despite the general predictability. Van Damme and the other actors do give solid performances. And while a somewhat low budget production, the movie's production values look fairly solid from the cinematography to the locations. If you don't mind the lack of swift-paced and frequent action, and want to see this general formula done with a European flair, give this movie a try.