Knock Off (1998)
Knock Off (1998)
Directed by Tsui Hark and starring Jean-Claude Van Damme, Knock Off (1998) is an over-the-top action thriller set in Hong Kong. The film follows Marcus Ray (Van Damme), a fashion industry businessman who gets entangled in a conspiracy involving counterfeit goods and a deadly plot by Russian terrorists.
As Hong Kong is about to be handed back to China, Marcus and his friend Tommy (Rob Schneider) discover that counterfeit jeans are being used to smuggle deadly microbombs. With the help of undercover CIA agent Karen (Lela Rochon), Marcus is forced to fight against a deadly network of criminals and corrupt officials.
Knock Off is packed with chaotic action sequences, wild camera angles, and intense fight scenes, characteristic of Tsui Hark’s directing style. Van Damme delivers his signature martial arts moves, though the film leans more into absurdity than realism. Rob Schneider, unexpectedly cast in an action role, provides comedic relief, though his presence feels out of place at times.
The film received mixed-to-negative reviews, with critics pointing out its nonsensical plot and over-the-top execution. However, for fans of Van Damme and ‘90s action flicks, Knock Off is an entertaining, fast-paced ride filled with explosive action and cheesy dialogue. It may not be one of Van Damme’s best films, but it’s certainly a fun and wild experience.
