Under Siege Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A disgruntled cook, who’s also a Navy SEAL, must save a battleship from terrorists led by a CIA nutjob and his crazy commander pal, all while a Playboy model pops out of a cake.

🍿 Under Siege: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Aboard the USS Missouri

The USS Missouri is preparing for its final voyage before decommissioning. Casey Ryback, a seemingly unassuming cook, is preparing a birthday meal for Captain Adams, much to the chagrin of Commander Krill, the ship’s XO, who constantly clashes with Ryback. Krill arranges for a helicopter to bring entertainment, including a band and Playboy Playmate Jordan Tate, for the Captain’s birthday party.

Terrorist Takeover

During the party, the ‘band’ reveals themselves to be mercenaries led by William Strannix, a former CIA operative, in cahoots with Commander Krill. They seize control of the ship, imprisoning the crew, with the intent of stealing the ship’s nuclear Tomahawk missiles. Krill, remembering Ryback, sends men to eliminate him, unaware of Ryback’s true capabilities.

Ryback’s Revenge

Ryback, far from an ordinary cook, is a highly trained ex-Navy SEAL. He quickly dispatches the mercenaries sent after him. Discovering their bodies, Strannix realizes Ryback is a serious threat. Ryback connects with Jordan Tate, who was also overlooked during the takeover, and together they begin to dismantle Strannix’s operation.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Casey Ryback (Steven Seagal): A former Navy SEAL working as a cook on the USS Missouri who must stop terrorists from stealing nuclear weapons.
• William Strannix (Tommy Lee Jones): The charismatic and ruthless ex-CIA operative leading the mercenaries in their attempt to seize control of the USS Missouri.
• Commander Krill (Gary Busey): The turncoat Executive Officer of the USS Missouri who aids Strannix in his plan.
• Jordan Tate (Erika Eleniak): A former Playboy Playmate who becomes an unlikely ally to Ryback in his fight against the terrorists.
• Captain Adams (Patrick O’Neal): The Captain of the USS Missouri who trusts Ryback, and becomes a victim in the initial takeover.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Casey Ryback: “I’m just a cook.” – Said repeatedly by Ryback to downplay his capabilities, before revealing his true skills.
• William Strannix: “We’re not terrorists, we’re mercenaries.” – Strannix attempts to justify his actions by distinguishing himself from typical terrorists.
• Commander Krill: “Surprise!” – Krill announces the terrorist attack to the Captain as his ‘surprise’ birthday gift.
• Casey Ryback: “Assume nothing.” – A piece of advice Ryback gives to Jordan Tate, emphasizing the importance of vigilance.
• William Strannix: “Gentlemen, lock and load!” – Strannix gives the order to his men to arm themselves and begin the takeover of the ship.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $30,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $83,563,139
• Worldwide Gross: $156,563,139

💥 Under Siege Reviews

Personal Review

Okay, I’ll admit it, I love Under Siege. It’s pure, unadulterated 90s action cheese, and I’m here for it. Tommy Lee Jones and Gary Busey are hilariously evil, and it’s awesome watching Seagal take down an army of bad guys on a battleship. That scene where Erika Eleniak pops out of the cake is iconic. It’s not high art, but it’s a blast!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of 90s action movies”
  • “Steven Seagal fans”
  • “Viewers who enjoy ‘Die Hard’ style plots”
  • “Those seeking explosive action and martial arts”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Intense violence”
  • “Strong language”
  • “Brief nudity”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “Under Siege delivers exactly what you expect: thrilling action sequences, scenery-chewing villains in Tommy Lee Jones and Gary Busey, and Steven Seagal doing his thing. The plot may be Die Hard on a boat, but it’s executed with enough flair to make it an enjoyable ride.
• Roger Ebert: “It’s a competent action film that knows what it is: an explosive thriller with a thin plot and over-the-top villains. Seagal is mostly stoic, but Jones and Busey’s performances make it worth watching.
• Empire Magazine: “A great example of over-the-top 90s action, elevated by a good cast, a decent director and enough explosions to make Michael Bay jealous.

Audience Reactions

Tommy Lee Jones’s performance as the villain is absolutely insane and makes the movie.: Viewers praised the over-the-top performances of the villains.

The action sequences are intense and keep you on the edge of your seat.: Many enjoyed the non-stop action and practical effects.

It’s Die Hard on a boat, but with Steven Seagal, so you know what you’re getting into.: Most people agreed that it’s a fun, mindless action flick.

Overall Consensus: Under Siege is a quintessential 90s action movie. It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s entertaining, thanks to the over-the-top villains and plentiful action. Fans of the genre will find plenty to enjoy.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film’s original title was ‘Dreadnought’.”
• “To prepare for his role, Steven Seagal underwent extensive culinary training to convincingly portray a chef.”
• “The USS Alabama (BB-60) served as the primary filming location, doubling for the USS Missouri. It is now a museum ship in Mobile, Alabama.”
• “Andrew Davis directed ‘Under Siege’ immediately before directing ‘The Fugitive’, also starring Tommy Lee Jones. Several actors from ‘Under Siege’ appear in ‘The Fugitive’.”
• “The film was a commercial success, grossing over $156 million worldwide against a budget of $30 million.”

🖥️ How to Watch Under Siege?

Under Siege is available for streaming on various platforms. You can find it for rent or purchase on Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check your local listings for cable and satellite options. Physical copies (DVD, Blu-ray) are also widely available for purchase.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Under Siege, you might like these similar films:

• Die Hard (1988): The quintessential ‘one man against terrorists’ action film, setting the standard for the genre.
• Executive Decision (1996): Another action film featuring a team of specialists trying to retake a hijacked plane, with similar suspenseful elements.
• Air Force One (1997): The President himself takes on terrorists who hijack his plane, combining political intrigue with high-octane action.
• Assault on Precinct 13 (1976): A group of police officers and criminals trapped in a police station must defend themselves against a relentless gang, creating a similar siege scenario.

🛒 Under Siege Related Products

• Under Siege (Blu-ray): Experience the explosive action of Under Siege in high definition. This Blu-ray edition includes special features and a pristine transfer of the film.
• Limited Edition Under Siege Poster: A high-quality, limited edition poster featuring the iconic artwork from Under Siege. A must-have collectible for any fan of the movie.
• Navy SEAL Survival Guide: Live a More Secure Life: Learn survival techniques from real Navy SEALs. Useful for everyday situations.
• DIE HARD: The Ultimate Collection: The complete Die Hard saga on Blu-Ray. The original inspiration for UNDER SIEGE.

🎧 Soundtrack

Under Siege features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Whiskey Fever” – performed by The Regulators
• “Main Title” – performed by Gary Chang

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Under Siege: Ryback vs Stranix

Check out this epic fight scene from Under Siege! It’s a classic showdown between Ryback and Stranix, and it’s sure to get your adrenaline pumping.

✨ Rate