Missing in Action 2: The Beginning

Missing in Action 2: The Beginning is a 1985 prequel to the 1984 film Missing in Action. It’s a riveting war film that follows an oft-employed yet always captivating premise of prisoners of war longing for freedom. It stars Chuck Norris, whose character, Colonel James Braddock, leads in courage and tenacity.

From the moment the film begins, the audience is drawn into the gritty reality of the Vietnam war era. Colonel James Braddock, an enigmatic figure played with characteristic grit by Norris, is a U.S. Army officer serving in Vietnam. The narrative takes an adrenaline-fueled turn when Braddock and his men are caught by the infamous Viet Cong. The men are then incarcerated in the most harrowing of prison camps where the cruelty of the camp commandant, Colonel Yin (played by Soon-Tek Oh), becomes evident.

Soon-Tek Oh's performance as the sadistic Colonel Yin offers a sharp contrast to Norris's Braddock. Oh plays the role of the ruthless dictator who runs the POW camp with a chilling intensity that resonates across every scene he is present. His survival-of-the-fittest belief system, coupled with a cold, cruel interrogation technique, creates a multi-layered character that intensifies the film's overall tension.

Steven Williams, another staple of the cast, plays the character of Captain Frankie Shaddock. He provides yet another captivating performance as he navigates the challenging task of surviving and maintaining his sanity under the pressure of being a captive and the torments served by Colonel Yin. His struggle and the dynamics he shares with Braddock offer compelling story arcs that promote the film’s tension and drama.

The film thrives on its visceral war-time representation and the clash of wills between Braddock and Yin. Braddock's indomitable spirit and unyielding resolution form the crux of the film. Here is a man who refuses to bow to Yin’s psychopathic manipulations. Despite the horrendous torture and impossible odds, Braddock is uncompromising. He remains as unbroken as ever, buoyed by his staunch defiance, fierce loyalty to his comrades, and unwavering determination to see them escape to freedom.

Directed by Lance Hool, Missing in Action 2: The Beginning, benefits from a directorial style that does not shy away from the horrors of war and the terrible reality of POW camps during the Vietnam War. Packed with action sequences synonymous with a Chuck Norris film, it keeps the audience on the edge of their seats while also exploring poignant themes of camaraderie, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit.

The grittiness and full-throttle suspense of the film are further enhanced by the cinematography of Jorge Stahl Jr. His work effectively illuminates the grim reality of the POW camp, contributing a visual immediacy that grounds the film's narrative while maintaining its brisk pace. Brian May's score complements the film remarkably well, infusing it with an aura of tension and valor with his composition.

However, it's important to note that this film does not elect to focus solely on kinetic firefight. It delves into the psychological combat as well, demonstrating the mental torment that the prisoners undergo. The film showcases a cruel reality where physical captivity pales in comparison to the prisons that are the prisoners' minds. It challenges the characters to not only endure their physical persecution but also to preserve the sanctity of their minds and humanity, providing a deeper exploration into the resilience of the human spirit.

Missing in Action 2: The Beginning is indeed an action-packed journey that presents more than just explosive combat scenes. The film offers a substantial narrative that pays homage to the enduring spirit of POWs during the Vietnam War. The excellent execution of the intense plot, coupled with superb performances by the ensemble cast, makes this film an interesting watch. Its mixture of thrilling action sequences, raw emotion, and solid performances create a timeless war movie that engages and moves the audience in equal measure. This film is ultimately a testament to the indomitable human spirit presented through memorable characters and a captivating plot.