JCVD

Directed by Mabrouk El Mechri

Van Damme plays a (slightly) fictionised version of himself in this very funny mock-biopic which sees “The Mussels from Brussels” get caught up in several adventures, including a custody case and a heist. The skill in JCVD comes from the way that Van Damme is willing to dissect and ridicule his public image, from competing for parts with Steven Segal to his career choices and his martial arts skills.

This screening will be introduced by Andy Willis, Reader in Film Studies at The University of Salford. A one-off not to be missed!

Reviews

“Ultimately, what could have been a direct-to-video curiosity becomes a highly unusual and strangely compelling collision of Being John Malkovich and Dog Day Afternoon. Seems like a spoof at first glance but this proves to be a compelling Post-modern thriller with gumption.” David Hughes, Empire

“Full of sly, Tarantino-style touches, this culty meta-thriller is consistently fresh and surprising. Van Damme hits a career high, breaking the fourth wall and the ceiling, too, in a keynote monologue.” Tom Charity, The Times

“Unpredictable, engaging and even challenging, JCVD is an intriguing oddity.” Tom Huddleston, Time Out (London)

Duration:
97 minutes

Languages:
English and French

Country of origin:
Belgium, France and Luxembourg

Year of production:
2008