Missing in Action Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Chuck Norris gets mad about a war that already ended, so he decides to go back and win it himself, single-handedly, because freedom.

🍿 Missing in Action: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Returning to Vietnam

Colonel James Braddock, a Vietnam War veteran haunted by his past as a POW, returns to Vietnam with a government delegation investigating reports of American soldiers still held captive. He quickly becomes disillusioned by the official proceedings and suspects a cover-up. Braddock encounters familiar faces from his past, including individuals who inflicted immense suffering upon him during his imprisonment. Driven by a deep sense of duty and fueled by his conviction that American soldiers remain prisoners, Braddock decides to take matters into his own hands. He abandons the official investigation and embarks on a personal mission to uncover the truth and rescue any remaining POWs.

Enlisting Help in Thailand

Braddock travels to Thailand and seeks the assistance of Tuck, a former army buddy now involved in black market activities. Tuck’s connections and resources prove invaluable as Braddock prepares for his clandestine operation. Tuck, played by M. Emmet Walsh, provides crucial logistical support and weaponry. Together, they assemble the necessary equipment, including a bulletproof raft and a helicopter, to infiltrate Vietnam and locate the rumored POW camp. This phase of the movie is crucial in setting the stage for the high-octane action that follows, showcasing Braddock’s resourcefulness and determination.

Infiltration and Rescue

Braddock and Tuck infiltrate Vietnam, navigating treacherous jungle terrain and evading enemy patrols. Braddock, a one-man army, skillfully dismantles the enemy camp through stealth and brute force. He confronts and eliminates key figures, including Colonel Vinh, the Vietnamese officer who tortured him years ago. After liberating the American POWs, Braddock and his team face a final showdown as they attempt to escape. A thrilling river chase ensues, culminating in a helicopter extraction that secures their freedom. However, the victory comes at a cost, with Tuck sacrificing himself to ensure their safe departure.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Braddock (Chuck Norris): A determined Vietnam War veteran and former POW who returns to Vietnam to rescue missing American soldiers.
• Tuck (M. Emmet Walsh): Braddock’s resourceful old Army buddy turned black market kingpin who provides crucial support for the rescue mission.
• General Tran (James Hong): The deceptive Vietnamese general who denies the existence of American POWs and accuses Braddock of war crimes.
• Ann (Lenore Kasdorf): A sympathetic member of the American investigative team who aids Braddock in his mission.
• Colonel Vinh (Ernie Ortega): A ruthless North Vietnamese officer and Braddock’s former torturer who seeks revenge.
• Senator Porter (David Tress): The head of the U.S. investigative committee in Vietnam.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Gen. Tran: “Colonel Braddock, is it not true that during the war there was a price on your head of 5,000 American Dollars?” – General Tran attempts to discredit Braddock during a meeting, highlighting his alleged war crimes.
• Col. James Braddock: “It was more like 20,000. Why don’t you tell us why there was a price on my head?” – Braddock responds to General Tran’s taunt, turning it back on him.
• Col. James Braddock: “For killing assholes like you!” – Braddock explains why there was a price on his head.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $2,550,000
• Domestic Gross: $22,812,411
• Worldwide Gross: $22,812,411

💥 Missing in Action Reviews

Personal Review

Okay, I’ll admit it, as a kid, I loved this movie. The slow-motion scenes, the explosions, Chuck Norris kicking butt – it was pure 80s action cheese. Watching it now, it’s definitely dated, but there’s a nostalgic charm to it. I remember wanting to be just like Braddock, fearlessly taking on any challenge. That scene where he emerges from the water with the M60? Still awesome.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Chuck Norris”
  • “Action movie enthusiasts”
  • “Those interested in Vietnam War-themed films”
  • “Viewers looking for simple, escapist entertainment”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Intense violence and action”
  • “War themes”
  • “Mild language”
  • “Brief nudity”

Professional Reviews

• Rotten Tomatoes: “While some may find the film entertaining on a purely visceral level, ‘Missing in Action’ is ultimately a simplistic and jingoistic action flick that offers little beyond explosions and Chuck Norris’s signature karate moves.
• AllMovie: “A serviceable action vehicle for Chuck Norris, but its predictable plot and reliance on clichés prevent it from being anything more than a B-movie thrill ride. If you like Norris, you’ll probably enjoy it.

Audience Reactions

Chuck Norris’s unmatched karate skills and no-nonsense attitude.: Viewers praised the film’s simple, action-packed plot and Chuck Norris’s portrayal of a heroic, unstoppable force.

The film’s over-the-top action sequences and explosive stunts.: Many enjoyed the film’s unapologetic approach to action, finding it a fun and entertaining escape.

Overall Consensus: Missing in Action is a quintessential 80s action film that offers high-octane entertainment but lacks depth or nuance.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Missing in Action and Missing in Action 2: The Beginning were filmed back-to-back, but the second film (a prequel) was released first after executives believed it was the stronger of the two.”
• “Jean-Claude Van Damme worked as a stuntman on this film before his breakthrough role in Bloodsport.”
• “The movie was filmed in the Philippines, with Filipino actors portraying Vietnamese characters.”

🖥️ How to Watch Missing in Action?

Missing in Action is available for streaming on various platforms. You can rent or buy it on Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu. Check your local listings for possible cable TV airings. Physical copies (DVD, Blu-ray) are also available for purchase online and in stores, offering the best quality and offline viewing options.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Missing in Action, you might like these similar films:

• Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985): Direct comparison: A Vietnam War veteran returns to Southeast Asia to rescue American POWs.
• Uncommon Valor (1983): Direct Comparison: A film centered on a private mission to find and rescue missing Vietnam War soldiers.
• Invasion U.S.A. (1985): Era-Specific Alternative: Another Chuck Norris action film from the same period, featuring a one-man army fighting against invaders.

🛒 Missing in Action Related Products

• Missing in Action Trilogy [Blu-ray]: Experience the complete Braddock saga with this Blu-ray collection, featuring all three action-packed films in high definition. A must-have for Chuck Norris fans!
• Chuck Norris: The Man, The Myth, The Legend: Delve into the life and career of the action icon with this comprehensive biography, filled with behind-the-scenes stories and rare photographs.
• Missing in Action Movie Poster: Showcase your love for this 80s classic with a high-quality reproduction of the original movie poster. Perfect for any fan’s collection.
• Action Movie Fanatic T-Shirt: Wear your fandom proudly with this comfortable tee, paying homage to action movie heroes like Braddock. A great conversation starter for fellow enthusiasts.

🎧 Soundtrack

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

• “Tibetan Jam” – performed by Ice-T
• “Main Title” – performed by Jay Chattaway

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

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

David Chung uses a Colt Commander. Missing in Action 2: The Beginning (1985). Lance Hool 📽

Whoa, check out this intense scene! David Chung is a total badass with that Colt Commander. You’ve GOT to see this!

Chuck Norris uses a Mk 2 Hand Grenade. Missing in Action (1984).Joseph Zito 📽

Okay, Chuck Norris with a grenade? What could go wrong?! This clip is pure explosive action from Missing in Action, you have to see this grenade scene!

Best of Chuck Norris in the Missing in Action Trilogy | Compilation | MGM

Want a quick dose of Chuck Norris awesomeness? This compilation packs all the best moments from the Missing in Action trilogy into one action-packed video. Prepare for non-stop excitement!

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