Fans of action films have something to celebrate! Jean-Claude Van Damme returns to the limelight in an unusual part as a secretive gardener in The Gardener (Le Jardinier). Prime Video France has unveiled the initial trailer and posters for this action-comedy, which promises a fun combination of humor, tension, and nail-biting drama.
Slated for release on January 10, 2025, only in France, The Gardener tells the story of Serge Shuster (Michaël Youn), a top government official whose name appears on a confidential assassination list tied to a political scheme. As danger looms, Serge and his family turn to their mysterious gardener, Léo (played by Jean-Claude Van Damme), for protection. This sets the stage for an exciting and, at times, comical mix of action and suspense.
Directed by David Charhon, known for The Last Mercenary, the film’s script is a collaboration between Charhon, Vincent De Brus, and Sebastien Fechner. The cast features Michaël Youn, Nawell Madani, Carla Poquin, and rapper Kaaris, in addition to Van Damme. While the movie promises thrilling action, it also embraces the humor in its storyline, offering audiences a delightful mix of excitement and laughs.
Interestingly, despite Jean-Claude’s past comments about stepping away from action roles, he continues to captivate audiences with characters that showcase his distinct martial arts talent infused with humor.
While there is no US release date for The Gardener yet, the intriguing trailer and fresh storyline have already sparked excitement. For viewers in France, this film is set to be a fantastic start to 2025 with thrilling action-comedy moments.
My Thoughts: The Gardener appears to be a delightful addition to Jean-Claude Van Damme’s collection of unique roles. The storyline may not be revolutionary, but it embraces its quirky nature, which could be its main appeal. Watching JCVD take on the role of a hero gardener is both amusing and oddly apt given his legacy in the action genre. The talented cast and production crew are expected to deliver an entertaining experience. However, the film’s exclusive release in France might disappoint international fans eager to see Van Damme on screen again.
What do you think about Jean-Claude Van Damme’s surprising role in The Gardener? Do you believe this action-comedy can attract a worldwide audience?
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