UNIVERSAL SOLDIERS, Movie review

 "Universal Soldier," directed by Roland Emmerich and released in 1992, is a sci-fi action film that pits Jean-Claude Van Damme and Dolph Lundgren against each other in a tale of resurrected soldiers turned into superhuman fighters. The movie opens with a dramatic scene set during the Vietnam War, where Sergeant Andrew Scott (Lundgren) goes insane, massacres villagers, and collects their ears as trophies. Luc Deveraux (Van Damme), a fellow soldier, confronts him, leading to a deadly standoff where both men kill each other.

Fast forward to the present day (the early '90s), and both Deveraux and Scott have been resurrected by a top-secret military project called "UniSol," short for Universal Soldier. This project aims to create perfect soldiers by reanimating dead bodies and enhancing them with advanced technology. Deveraux and Scott, now known as GR44 and GR13, respectively, are reprogrammed with no memory of their past lives and are controlled by a team of scientists led by Dr. Christopher Gregor (Jerry Orbach). The soldiers are used for high-risk missions that regular troops cannot handle.

The film's plot kicks into high gear when Deveraux starts to experience flashbacks of his previous life. During a mission to rescue hostages from a dam, he begins to remember his past, particularly the traumatic events that led to his death. This burgeoning awareness sets him apart from the other UniSols, who remain robotic and obedient. Meanwhile, Veronica Roberts (Ally Walker), a determined television journalist, stumbles upon the UniSol project and starts to investigate. She becomes entangled in the action when she captures footage of Deveraux defying orders and subsequently going on the run.

Van Damme's portrayal of Deveraux is compelling, balancing the physical demands of the role with moments of vulnerability as his character grapples with his resurfacing humanity. His chemistry with Walker adds an emotional layer to the film, providing a break from the relentless action sequences. Walker's Veronica is a strong and resourceful character, driving much of the narrative as she helps Deveraux uncover the truth about the UniSol program.

Lundgren's performance as Scott/GR13 is menacing and intense. He fully embraces the role of the unhinged villain, delivering memorable lines and creating a palpable sense of danger. The film builds towards an inevitable confrontation between Deveraux and Scott, rekindling their fatal feud from Vietnam. This climax takes place in a thrilling final showdown that showcases both actors' martial arts prowess and the film's impressive stunt work.

The action sequences in "Universal Soldier" are a highlight, featuring well-choreographed fights, explosive set pieces, and high-speed chases. Emmerich, known for his later work on large-scale disaster films, demonstrates a knack for pacing and visual spectacle. The film's practical effects and early '90s special effects technology add to its charm, creating a gritty, visceral experience that complements the narrative's darker themes.

The film's commentary on the ethics of military experimentation and the loss of individuality in the pursuit of creating perfect soldiers adds a layer of depth to the otherwise straightforward action plot. The UniSol program's scientists, led by Dr. Gregor, represent the cold, calculating aspect of scientific advancement, willing to sacrifice human lives for the sake of progress. This moral ambiguity adds a layer of tension, as viewers are invited to question the true cost of such technological advancements.

"Universal Soldier" also explores themes of identity and memory, as Deveraux struggles to reconcile his past with his present. His journey is one of self-discovery and redemption, seeking to reclaim his humanity in the face of dehumanizing technology. This struggle is mirrored by Scott's descent into madness, illustrating the different paths the two characters have taken despite their similar origins.

While "Universal Soldier" may not be a critical darling, it has garnered a cult following over the years, thanks to its entertaining blend of action, science fiction, and thought-provoking themes. The film spawned several sequels and a franchise that has continued to explore the UniSol universe, albeit with varying degrees of success.

In conclusion, "Universal Soldier" is a quintessential '90s action film that delivers on its promise of thrilling combat and engaging characters. Van Damme and Lundgren shine in their respective roles, supported by a solid cast and a well-executed plot. The film's exploration of memory, identity, and the ethics of military technology adds a layer of complexity that elevates it above typical action fare. For fans of the genre, "Universal Soldier" remains a must-watch, offering a nostalgic trip back to a time when action heroes were larger than life and the stakes were always high.