Icarus (I) (2010)

With a name like "Dolph Lundgren is The Killing Machine," the chance that the following movie is going to be an exciting action-fueled bullet fest is essentially guaranteed. Originally unveiled as "Icarus" late last year, Dolph Lundgren's newest DVD offering is obviously fueling off his success with The Expendables, and for good reason. Dolph is one of the few classic style action stars left, and to see them continuing to make quality films is exciting. "Dolph Lundgren is The Killing Machine" is an testosterone-infused homage to the beloved action flicks of the 80's, crafted with enough care and finesse to satisfy even the most jaded fans of the genre.

Dolph Lundgren plays Icarus, a KGB-trained assassin that is struggling to balance his work life with his family life. After being betrayed by the Russian Mob, Icarus is forced to stage a one-man showdown against his betrayers, all the while piecing together the mystery of who turned him in. Back on the home-front, his ex-wife still thinks that Icarus is really just an investment broker named Eddie that has been neglecting time with their young daughter. In most cases, trying to infuse a family conflict into an action-packed movie wouldn't necessarily work that well, but the script is strong enough to support both the drama and action sides of the story simultaneously. The writing is shockingly effective and the characters oddly believable for a straight-to-video action flick, all working together to create a story that viewers can relate to and connect with.

Another surprising aspect of the production is how well the actors portray their characters. Besides Dolph Lundgren and Bo Svenson (Known for supporting roles in lower-budget 80's action films), the cast is made of relatively unknown actors, almost all of which turn in great performances. Dolph Lundgren is fantastic in his double role as the gentle giant and the brutal assassin, Stefanie Von Pfetten portrays Icarus' wife in a very believable fashion, and Bo Svenson is superb as always as Icarus' acquaintance from the past.

Where the movie really shines, however, is in the well-choreographed and expertly shot action sequences. Dolph Lundgren showcases his superb directing skills by showcasing each of the film's many action sequences in unique and brutal ways. The kicks are swift and the punches have impact, to the point where when a baddie gets thrown through a window pane, audiences can really connect with the mayhem happening on-screen. Considering how action films are utilizing more and more abrupt cuts and trick photography presently, it's refreshing to see a movie like this that just cuts the crap and focuses on the brutality.

"Dolph Lundgren is The Killing Machine" targets a very specific audience, but fans of the lost 80's action genre will be rather entertained by Dolph's latest offering. It's an homage to tough and brutal action films of the past, filmed by a man that truly knows what fans are clamoring for and knows how to deliver. Smooth dialogue, believable acting, and excellent choreography all blend together to create an experience that is both familiar and refreshing. Hopefully with some support, films like this can continue to find audiences that appreciate the hard-work and allow the genre to grow for decades to come.