Action Jackson

Action Jackson is a riveting 1988 action-packed thriller directed by Craig R. Baxley. This movie showcases seasoned actors enduring fame in Hollywood: Carl Weathers of Rocky fame, Craig T. Nelson, known for his part in The Incredibles, and the mesmerizing Vanity.

Weathers stars as Sergeant Jericho 'Action' Jackson, a Detroit police detective known for his superhuman strength, mental capabilities, and unwavering dedication to justice. On the surface, he is the quintessential action hero with an investigative intellect as sharp as his fighting skills. However, there's more to him than his seeming invincibility – Jackson, a law graduate turned cop, was demoted due to a run-in with a millionaire industrialist, Peter Dellaplane, brought to life by Craig T. Nelson.

Peter Dellaplane, the main antagonist of the movie, is a millionaire auto magnate. His wealth and influence are overshadowed by his deadly alliances and murderous tactics. Dellaplane is not a man to be trifled with, having a selfish and destructive agenda, which reveals his true character as cold, ruthless, and morally bankrupt.

Vanity, playing Sydney Ash, the heroin-addicted singer, provides a sensuous and tragic complement to the high-octane action. Vanity delivers an exceptional and emotional performance, enabling viewers to feel deeply connected with her character. Sydney becomes involved with Jackson, leading to a tangled web of crime, love, and revenge.

The plot of Action Jackson unfolds after the mysterious deaths of union officials. The fierce investigator, despite his demotion, engages in a battle of wits and brawn to solve the mystery. The film is a non-stop action romp full of car chases, martial arts, and explosive scenes that keep the audiences entertained while sustaining an intriguing narrative that keeps them at the edge of their seats.

Jericho’s character, despite being the essence of an 80s action hero – muscled and macho, embodies a certain depth. His excellent education, his charm, and the complexity of his backstory sets him apart from other stereotypical action characters. He is not just drawn into action due to circumstance, but he embraces it to seek a personal sense of justice, which includes righting the wrongs done to him.

Sharon Stone also graces the movie with her short role as Dellaplane’s neglected wife, Patrice. As a victim of her husband's malice, her presence makes the plot even more intense and emotionally engaging.

Action Jackson isn't just about a display of physicality, but showcases a battle of morality, ambition, revenge, and justice. Its core tension revolves around its characters, their motivations, and ethical alignments. The character development is intricately woven into the action sequences, making this film a well-rounded experience for action movie enthusiasts.

Director Craig R. Baxley, based on a screenplay by Robert Reneau, has masterfully executed the narrative, keeping it loaded with drama, suspense, and a fair share of humor. Considering this was Baxley’s directorial debut, the movie is impressive, offering an apt blend of thrilling moments laded with strong performances.

The cinematography and editing effectively heighten the thrill of adrenaline-pumping scenes, taking advantage of the ‘80s technology to blend tension, danger, and excitement. The original score serves as a great accompaniment to the moods and themes of the scene, enhancing the aesthetics of the film.

In summary, Action Jackson is a high-stakes, breathtaking rollercoaster ride brought to life by strong performances, intense action, thrilling chases, and explosive confrontations—all set against the backdrop of Detroit. The film, layered with crime, corruption, and vengeance, offers a vigorous venture of escapism for action lovers. Despite being produced in the late 80s, Action Jackson has stood the test of time, making it relevant and enjoyable even for contemporary audiences. This movie is an unmissable gem for those who appreciate classic action cinema. It's not just the action that's in abundance here, but a showcase of human values, making it a truly captivating experience.