The Quest (1996)

 

I really love Van Damme, I do. Are all of his films enjoyable? Alas no, but there are few actors who can pull that off. 'The Quest' was an ambitious project that unfortunately hearkens back way too much to 'Bloodsport' which is by far the superior film. But I guess if you want a slower, less exciting version of that story set in the past, then by all means: have a look.

Van Damme plays Christopher Dubois, a street urchin who takes care of orphans. But because they steal from some gangsters, Dubois is forced to run and ends up on a barge heading for the orient. This ship is attacked by Dobbs (Moore), a pirate and schemer who just smells money in spite of his suave appearance and demeanour. He sells Dubois to a Thai man, who will then proceed to train Dubois for several months by which time Dubois becomes one of the best Muay Thai fighters around. 

Next, they want to head to the Ghan-Gheng, which is a tournament reserved for the best fighters in the world and you can only get in via invitation. They hustle their way in through American boxer Maxie Devine, but the sole reason is the prize: a fully golden dragon. 

From then on, it's pretty much excatly the same beats as 'Bloodsport', only shot in a way more mundane manner and with way less interesting side characters. Bolo Yeung was hard to top as the big bad and even though Abdel Quissy definitely has the menacing look, he is not built up as this massive opponent. He feels flat and lacks in the 'final boss' department. 

It's pretty disappointing that this film can't strike a bigger nerve as being a piece of enjoyable schlock, but it really doesn't. In fact, it is rather boring. Van Dame might have been aiming for a more serious tone, but the entire premisse is already silly and over the top, something that 'Bloodsport' got. Also, the fights in that were better choreographed and the editing overall was a lot snappier. This one drags and drags and doesn't bring any excitement to the table whatsoever.

Sorry JCVD, this isn't one of your better/enjoyable ones. 

Still love you, though.