The Underrated Dark Thriller On Netflix With The Best Action Star Ever

By Steven Nelson | Published

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Step into a world where action meets drama as you queue up The Foreigner on your Netflix watchlist, featuring none other than the martial arts maestro, Jackie Chan. In this intense thriller, Chan sheds his typically cheerful on-screen persona to deliver a performance that’s riddled with depth, showcasing a grieving father’s relentless pursuit of justice.

Directed by Martin Campbell, the man behind iconic James Bond films, The Foreigner is a gripping tale that unfolds against a backdrop of political intrigue and explosive action sequences. If you’re ready for a side of Jackie Chan you’ve rarely seen, this film promises an exhilarating ride.

Jackie Chan stars in The Foreigner streaming on Netflix

The Foreigner, starring the legendary Jackie Chan, is a riveting action thriller that revolves around the character of Ngoc Minh Quan, a humble London-based businessman with a haunting past. Quan’s world is turned upside down when his teenage daughter, Fan, is killed in a politically-motivated terrorist bombing. Devastated by his loss, Quan embarks on a relentless pursuit of justice, vowing to bring those responsible to account.

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As Quan digs deeper, he discovers that the bombing is linked to a group of rogue Irish terrorists. He targets Liam Hennessy (played by Pierce Brosnan), a government official with former ties to the terrorists, believing him to hold the key to the identities of the bombers. Quan’s quest for vengeance takes him into a shadowy world of political conspiracy, power struggles, and hidden agendas.

Quan employs his skills, honed during his time as a special forces operative in the Vietnam War, to uncover the truth. He faces numerous obstacles and challenges as he unravels a complex web of intrigue involving British and Northern Irish politics, all while Hennessy struggles to manage political tensions and maintain his own grip on power.

Jackie Chan plays opposite Pierce Brosnan in The Foreigner

The film’s narrative is imbued with themes of revenge, redemption, and the moral complexities of justice. Jackie Chan delivers a poignant and compelling performance, portraying a man driven by grief, grappling with loss, and seeking closure, while Pierce Brosnan excellently embodies the role of a conflicted and morally ambiguous politician.

jackie chan

The Foreigner keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, combining intense action sequences, gripping drama, and a nuanced exploration of political themes. The film’s storyline is a rollercoaster of suspense and surprises, with Jackie Chan’s dynamic performance adding depth to the cinematic experience.

The Foreigner, featuring Jackie Chan in a lead role, received mixed-to-positive reviews from critics and holds a 66% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics commended Chan’s departure from his usual comedic and high-flying martial arts roles, appreciating his portrayal of a more serious and dramatic character. His performance as a grieving father on a quest for vengeance was highlighted as emotionally resonant and showcased his versatility as an actor.

In general, Jackie Chan and The Foreigner were well received by critics, scoring 66% on Rotten Tomatoes

While the film was praised for its thrilling action sequences and the dynamic between Chan and Pierce Brosnan, some critics noted that the plot could be convoluted at times, with a mix of political intrigue and personal revenge themes. Nevertheless, audiences generally enjoyed the film, citing it as a refreshing change for Jackie Chan and appreciating the depth and intensity he brought to the role.

The Foreigner‘s moderate success with critics did not deter fans, who appreciated the blend of action and drama, and the opportunity to see a different facet of Jackie Chan’s illustrious career. The film’s exploration of complex themes, along with Chan’s compelling performance, contributed to its overall positive reception from the audience.

The Foreigner, featuring the legendary Jackie Chan in a role that diverges from his traditional action-comedy persona, leaves a lasting impression. The film weaves a gripping tale of vengeance and political intrigue, providing audiences with a thrilling ride from start to finish. 

With its solid mix of drama and action, and a poignant performance by Chan, it adds a unique and memorable chapter to his diverse filmography. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Jackie Chan or simply in the mood for a captivating action thriller, The Foreigner is well worth a watch.