Universal Soldier, released in theaters on July 10, 1992, is a quintessential 90s action film that pits two of the era’s biggest muscle-bound stars against each other in a thrilling sci-fi premise. Directed by Roland Emmerich (Independence Day), this movie delivers a relentless barrage of explosions, hand-to-hand combat, and a surprisingly engaging story about identity and redemption.
During the Vietnam War, soldiers Luc Deveraux (Jean-Claude Van Damme) and Andrew Scott (Dolph Lundgren) kill each other in a brutal confrontation. Decades later, they are resurrected as “Universal Soldiers” (UniSols), genetically enhanced, emotionless super-soldiers used for covert operations.
However, a glitch causes Deveraux to regain his memories, leading him to escape the program. Scott, also regaining his psychotic tendencies, is sent to hunt him down, resulting in a relentless chase across the country as Deveraux tries to uncover the truth about his past and expose the UniSol program, all while being pursued by his deranged former nemesis.
Van Damme delivers a solid performance as Deveraux. He effectively conveys the character’s confusion and growing humanity as his memories return, while still showcasing his signature martial arts prowess in the film’s numerous fight sequences. Van Damme brings a sympathetic quality to the role, making him a compelling protagonist.
Lundgren is absolutely terrifying and scene-stealing as the villainous Scott as he fully embraces the character’s psychotic break, making Scott a truly unhinged and formidable antagonist. His over-the-top performance, complete with a necklace of human ears, provides a chilling contrast to Van Damme’s more subdued portrayal, and their on-screen rivalry is electric.
Ally Walker plays Veronica Roberts, a tenacious TV journalist who inadvertently gets caught up in Deveraux’s escape and becomes his reluctant ally. Walker brings intelligence and resourcefulness to her role, providing a human element to the sci-fi spectacle.
Jerry Orbach provides a gruff but effective presence as Dr. Christopher Gregor, one of the scientists behind the UniSol program.
Ed O’Ross plays Colonel Perry, the military commander overseeing the program, adding to the sense of authority and menace.
Universal Soldier (Photo/Tri-Star Pictures)
Reception for Universal Soldier
Universal Soldier grossed $10.1 million on its opening weekend, finishing second at the box office behind A League of Their Own ($11.7 million) and ahead of Boomerang ($9.3 million).
The film would gross $36.3 worldwide.
Roger Ebert gave the film two out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
Universal Soldier is a high-octane thrill ride that perfectly blends sci-fi concepts with explosive action. Its strong lead performances, particularly Lundgren’s memorable villainy, and its relentless pace make it a standout entry in the 90s action genre, offering plenty of thrills and a satisfying showdown.
