The Last Mercenary (2021)

The Last Mercenary is a breezy, self-aware action-comedy that reminds you why Jean-Claude Van Damme became a star in the first place: he’s still got the physical presence, but now he’s in on the joke, playing with his own legend in a way that feels oddly charming. The movie’s special sauce is its French sense of humor—slightly cheeky, a little absurd, and happy to pivot from a slick fight beat to a punchline without breaking stride. It’s the kind of easy, popcorn-friendly ride where the action is competent, the vibe is playful, and Van Damme’s charisma does a lot of the heavy lifting. If you’re looking for grounded espionage or deep drama, this isn’t it—but if you want a fun, lighthearted romp with an icon having a good time, it’s a satisfying watch.

The Last Mercenary is aiming for a throwback action-comedy: a swaggering, old-school super-agent dragged back into the game while trying to connect with a son he never knew. The problem is the movie leans hard on clichés and a surprisingly convoluted plot, so the jokes and twists feel more exhausting than clever, and the pacing makes it longer than it earns. If you’re expecting sharp comedy or standout action set pieces, you’ll likely find it flat, with supporting characters that can grate rather than charm. That said, if you’re a Jean-Claude Van Damme fan who’s happy to coast on his presence and a few playful nods to spy-movie tropes, you might get just enough to pass the time.