The 60+ Best Jean-Claude Van Damme Movies, Ranked
- 1Jean-Claude Van Damme, Donald Gibb, Leah Ayres
Bloodsport, released in 1988, showcases Jean-Claude Van Damme's incredible martial arts skills and athletic prowess as Frank Dux, an American soldier who competes in the underground fighting tournament known as Kumite. Featuring high-octane action sequences and a riveting storyline, Bloodsport catapulted Van Damme to international stardom. The film's raw and intense fight scenes resonate with fans of martial arts movies, showcasing various fighting styles that keep viewers enthralled throughout. Bloodsport remains a fan favorite and has solidified its place in the annals of action cinema history.
- 2Jean-Claude Van Damme, Dennis Alexio, Dennis Chan
In this thrilling 1989 release, Van Damme stars as Kurt Sloane, a man seeking vengeance after his brother is paralyzed by the ruthless Muay Thai champion Tong Po. Filled with exciting fight scenes and striking visuals of Thailand's stunning landscapes, Kickboxer showcases Van Damme's exceptional martial arts abilities while also highlighting his dramatic acting range. The emotional journey of Sloane - from struggling fighter to vengeful warrior - captivates viewers and cements Kickboxer as a quintessential martial arts film.
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- 3Jean-Claude Van Damme, Lance Henriksen, Arnold Vosloo
In this 1993 action-thriller, Jean-Claude Van Damme stars as Chance Boudreaux, a drifter who becomes entangled in a dangerous game of human hunting orchestrated by wealthy elites. Directed by legendary action filmmaker John Woo, Hard Target features stunning visuals and explosive fight scenes that showcase Van Damme's incredible martial arts skills. The gripping story keeps viewers invested throughout the thrilling cat-and-mouse chase, culminating in a climactic showdown that solidifies Hard Target as one of Van Damme's finest films.
- 4Jean-Claude Van Damme, Deborah Rennard, Harrison Page
Van Damme delivers another compelling performance in the 1990 action-drama Lionheart. Playing Lyon Gaultier, a French Foreign Legion deserter who becomes an underground fighter to provide for his late brother's family, Van Damme displays immense talent both as an actor and a martial artist. With emotional depth seldom seen in action films, Lionheart offers audiences not only electrifying fight scenes but also strong character development that leaves a lasting impression.
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- 5Jean-Claude Van Damme, Dolph Lundgren, Ally Walker
1992's Universal Soldier pits Jean-Claude Van Damme against fellow action star Dolph Lundgren in this science-fiction thriller about genetically enhanced soldiers brought back from the dead to serve as ultimate weapons. As protagonist Luc Deveraux struggles to regain his humanity amidst a battle against mind-controlled super soldiers, Van Damme showcases impressive acting chops and unforgettable combat sequences. The film's intriguing storyline, coupled with its adrenaline-pumping action set pieces, make Universal Soldier an exhilarating cinematic experience.
- 6Jean-Claude Van Damme, Mia Sara, Ron Silver
Timecop (1994) sees Van Damme take on the role of Max Walker, a time-traveling police officer tasked with preventing criminals from altering the past for personal gain. Combining sci-fi themes with jaw-dropping action sequences, Timecop presents an imaginative tale filled with twists and turns that keep audiences enthralled from start to finish. As Walker strives to maintain justice throughout time while grappling with personal tragedy, Van Damme demonstrates his talent for bringing depth and emotion to his characters.
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- 7Jean-Claude Van Damme, Geoffrey Lewis, Alan Scarfe
Van Damme takes on dual roles in the 1991 action flick Double Impact, playing estranged twin brothers Alex and Chad Wagner who come together to exact revenge on their parents' killers. Displaying remarkable versatility in portraying both a hardened street fighter and a naïve martial artist simultaneously, Van Damme captivates viewers with his impressive acting range in addition to awe-inspiring combat scenes that emphasize his superior martial arts prowess.
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- 8
Sudden Death
Jean-Claude Van Damme, Powers Boothe, Raymond J. BarryThe 1995 thriller Sudden Death puts Jean-Claude Van Damme in the role of Darren McCord, a former firefighter turned arena security guard who must save his daughter and the Vice President from terrorists during a hockey game. This tense, high-stakes action film showcases Van Damme's agility and resourcefulness as he battles both time and enemies throughout an adrenaline-fueled race against the clock. Sudden Death remains an exciting addition to Van Damme's extensive action film repertoire.
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- 9Jean-Claude Van Damme, Rosanna Arquette, Kieran Culkin
In this 1993 romantic action-drama, Van Damme stars as Sam Gillen, an escaped convict who comes to the aid of a widowed mother and her children when their farm is targeted by crooked developers. Combining intense fight scenes with heartfelt moments of tenderness, Nowhere to Run highlights Van Damme's versatility as both an action hero and a dramatic actor. The emotional depth of the story sets this film apart from other titles in the actor's catalog, proving that his talents extend far beyond high-kicking combat sequences.
- 10Jean-Claude Van Damme, Robert Guillaume, Cynthia Gibb
Death Warrant (1990) casts Jean-Claude Van Damme as Louis Burke, an undercover cop who infiltrates a prison to investigate a series of mysterious inmate murders. As Burke delves deeper into the sinister conspiracy behind these crimes, he finds himself fighting not only for justice but also for his own survival. Featuring intense hand-to-hand combat scenes and an engrossing storyline, Death Warrant keeps viewers on edge throughout its gripping narrative while showcasing Van Damme's undeniable physical abilities on screen.
- 11Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Jet Li
The star-studded ensemble cast of The Expendables 2 (2012) includes Jean-Claude Van Damme as the formidable villain Jean Vilain, pitting him against iconic action heroes such as Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger. With bombastic battle sequences and memorable one-liners delivered by some of cinema's greatest tough guys, The Expendables 2 offers a thrilling spectacle that celebrates the best of classic action filmmaking. Van Damme's charismatic portrayal of the ruthless Vilain adds an extra layer of excitement to this high-octane blockbuster.
- 12Jean-Claude Van Damme, Roger Moore, James Remar
1996's The Quest sees Jean-Claude Van Damme not only starring as Chris Dubois, an American pickpocket-turned-martial artist but also making his directorial debut. Set against the backdrop of the Lost City of Tibet during World War II, Dubois competes in a deadly martial arts tournament called Ghan-gheng for possession of a priceless golden dragon statue. The film's visually stunning locations and exhilarating fight choreography make it an entertaining addition to Van Damme's filmography.
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- 13Jean-Claude Van Damme, François Damiens, Zinedine Soualem
In a departure from his usual roles, Jean-Claude Van Damme plays a fictionalized version of himself in the 2008 meta-drama JCVD. Caught up in a real-life bank heist while suffering from personal and professional problems, Van Damme must rely on his wits and innate abilities to survive the ordeal. The film's contemplative exploration of fame, identity, and self-perception provides a fresh perspective on the actor's storied career while showcasing his impressive acting range in both dramatic and comedic scenes.
More JCVD - 14Jean-Claude Van Damme, Deborah Richter, Vincent Klyn
In this post-apocalyptic sci-fi flick from 1989, Jean-Claude Van Damme takes on the role of Gibson Rickenbacker, a "slinger" tasked with escorting a cyborg carrying vital information needed to save humanity from total annihilation by vicious marauders known as "Flesh Pirates." Featuring gritty visuals and explosive martial arts action sequences that highlight Van Damme's physical prowess, Cyborg remains an essential entry into his storied career.
- 15Jean-Claude Van Damme, Natasha Henstridge, Zach Grenier
This high-stakes thriller from 1996 stars Jean-Claude Van Damme as Alain Moreau, a French cop who assumes the identity of his slain twin brother to uncover the truth behind his mysterious death. As he delves deeper into the dangerous world of international crime and espionage, Moreau finds himself in a deadly game of cat and mouse with powerful enemies at every turn. With intense action sequences and a gripping storyline, Maximum Risk keeps viewers on edge from start to finish.
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- 16Jean-Claude Van Damme, Lawrence Taylor, Marnie Alton
2003's In Hell sees Van Damme portray Kyle LeBlanc, an innocent man wrongly imprisoned for murder who must navigate Russia's most brutal prison system while seeking redemption and justice. Featuring gritty visuals and visceral fight scenes that highlight both Van Damme's dramatic capabilities and martial arts expertise, In Hell offers viewers an intense tale of survival and retribution.
- 17Jean-Claude Van Damme, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Daniel Caltagirone
Jean-Claude Van Damme delivers a powerful performance in 1998's Legionnaire as Alain Lefevre, a former boxing champion who joins the French Foreign Legion to escape the mob after betraying them in a fixed fight. Set against the backdrop of the brutal Rif War in 1920s Morocco, this war drama showcases Van Damme's acting range and physical abilities amidst an epic story of survival.
- 18
Double Team
Dennis Rodman, Mickey Rourke, Jean-Claude Van DammeDouble Team (1997) brings together Jean-Claude Van Damme and legendary basketball player Dennis Rodman as two unlikely partners forced to team up to take down an international terrorist played by Mickey Rourke. Filled with explosive action sequences and bizarre yet entertaining plot twists, Double Team is an action-packed thrill ride that showcases Van Damme's iconic screen presence alongside Rodman's unique charisma.
- 19Jean-Claude Van Damme, Kim Tai-chung, Kurt McKinney
In this 1986 martial arts film that marked one of Jean-Claude Van Damme's earliest roles onscreen, he played Ivan Kraschinsky - a ruthless Russian fighter known as "The Russian." Though not the main character, Van Damme's memorable performance as the imposing antagonist serves as a testament to his early talent for captivating audiences with his martial arts skills and commanding presence.
- 20Jean-Claude Van Damme, Michael Rooker, Catherine Dent
Replicant (2001) sees Jean-Claude Van Damme in a dual role once again, playing both a serial killer named Edward "The Torch" Garrotte and his genetically-engineered clone designed to help track him down. The film showcases Van Damme's acting range as he portrays two vastly different characters, highlighting his ability to embody both hero and villain with equal conviction. The exciting action sequences and intriguing premise make Replicant an engaging addition to Van Damme's extensive filmography.
- 21Jean-Claude Van Damme, Scott Adkins, Michael Higgs
In this 2011 action-thriller, Jean-Claude Van Damme stars as Vincent Brazil, an elite assassin who reluctantly teams up with another hitman played by Scott Adkins to take down a powerful crime lord. Featuring intense gunplay and hand-to-hand combat scenes that showcase both actors' impressive martial arts abilities, Assassination Games offers viewers a thrilling tale of deception and double-crosses set within the seedy underworld of international crime.
- 22Jean-Claude Van Damme, Dolph Lundgren, Scott Adkins
In the 2012 installment of the Universal Soldier series, Day of Reckoning sees Jean-Claude Van Damme reprise his role as Luc Deveraux - now turned rogue and seeking revenge on those who created him. With its dark atmosphere, brutal violence, and gripping storyline that delves deeper into the character's psyche than previous entries in the franchise, Day of Reckoning stands out as one of the most unique and compelling films in Van Damme's catalog.
- 23Jean-Claude Van Damme, Dolph Lundren, Andrei Arlovski
Regeneration (2009) marks another return to form for Jean-Claude Van Damme as Luc Deveraux in this exhilarating installment of the Universal Soldier series. The film pits Deveraux against a new breed of highly advanced super-soldiers, resulting in adrenaline-pumping action sequences that showcase Van Damme's martial arts expertise and unwavering determination to save humanity from imminent destruction.
- 24Jean-Claude Van Damme, Joe Flanigan, Anna-Louise Plowman
In this 2012 action-thriller, Jean-Claude Van Damme stars as Samson Gaul, a retired mercenary hired by a desperate father to find his kidnapped daughter. As Gaul races against time to locate the girl before she falls victim to a brutal human trafficking ring, he must confront his own past demons and embrace the violence he once tried to escape. With its mix of heartfelt drama and intense action set pieces, Six Bullets offers a mature and gripping portrayal of redemption and survival.
- 25Jean-Claude Van Damme, Raul Julia, Ming-Na
Based on the popular video game franchise, 1994's Street Fighter stars Jean-Claude Van Damme as Colonel Guile - leader of an international fighting force tasked with stopping the villainous General M. Bison from conquering the world. Filled with over-the-top battles and colorful characters brought to life by an eclectic cast, Street Fighter remains an entertaining slice of 90s nostalgia that highlights Van Damme's ability to excel at both serious dramas and lighthearted fare alike.
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- 26Jean-Claude Van Damme, Simon Yam, Tony Schiena
2004's Wake of Death sees Jean-Claude Van Damme take on the role of Ben Archer, an ex-criminal turned club owner whose family becomes embroiled in a deadly conflict with Chinese Triads after taking in a young refugee girl. As Archer delves deeper into the criminal underworld to protect those he loves, viewers are treated to visceral fight scenes and high-stakes chases that showcase Van Damme's enduring status as an action film legend.
- 27Jean-Claude Van Damme, Jaime Pressly, Danny Trejo
Inferno (1999) stars Jean-Claude Van Damme as Eddie Lomax, a suicidal ex-Marine seeking solace in the desert only to find himself taking on a ruthless gang of outlaws terrorizing a small town. Filled with high-octane fight scenes and explosive car chases, Inferno offers an exciting tale of vengeance set against the backdrop of the harsh American Southwest.
- 28Jean-Claude Van Damme, Stephen Rea, Selina Giles
Jean-Claude Van Damme delivers a nuanced performance in 2007's Until Death as Anthony Stowe, a corrupt police detective who embarks on a path of redemption after a near-death experience. The film showcases Van Damme's acting range and ability to portray complex, flawed characters while offering audiences an intriguing blend of dramatic storytelling and thrilling action sequences.
- 29Jean-Claude Van Damme, Rob Schneider, Lela Rochon
In this 1998 action-comedy directed by Tsui Hark, Jean-Claude Van Damme stars alongside Rob Schneider as Marcus Ray - a Hong Kong fashion designer caught up in an international conspiracy involving counterfeit goods and deadly microbombs. With its whirlwind pace and eclectic cast of characters, Knock Off provides plenty of laughs and thrilling action set pieces that showcase Van Damme's abilities as both an actor and martial artist.
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- 30Jean-Claude Van Damme, Michael Jai White, Heidi Schanz
The 1999 sequel to Universal Soldier sees Jean-Claude Van Damme reprise his role as Luc Deveraux, now working alongside the government to train new super-soldiers like himself. When their artificial intelligence program goes rogue and threatens humanity's extinction, Deveraux must once again step up to save the world from annihilation. Combining cyberpunk themes with adrenaline-fueled action sequences, Universal Soldier: The Return offers an entertaining continuation of the original film's premise.
