The Evil That Men Do

The Evil That Men Do is a thrilling and suspenseful action movie from 1984, directed by J. Lee Thompson. It boasts a talented cast including Charles Bronson ("Once Upon a Time in the West", "Death Wish"), Theresa Saldana ("Raging Bull", "Defiance"), and Joseph Maher ("Sister Act", "In & Out"). This compelling and often intense film takes viewers on an action-packed ride, replete with drama, suspense, and some of the most unforgettable performances of the era.

Set against a backdrop of political and social unrest in Central America, the film follows the story of Holland (Charles Bronson), a retired assassin living a quiet life in the Caribbean. The narrative takes an unexpected turn when Holland is approached by old friends, who convince him to take on one last assignment. The mission? To eliminate a former colleague turned sadistic torturer, Clement Molloch (Joseph Maher).

Molloch is a doctor notorious for his inhumane acts; instead of preserving life, he uses his medical knowledge to inflict pain and torture on political prisoners for military dictatorships. While publically he maintains an image of a respectable physician contributing to medical conferences, his disturbing practices have earned him a sinister reputation amongst those aware of his true character. And to anyone who dares cross him, Molloch is also a chilling symbol of dread and fear.

Theresa Saldana plays the role of Claire, Holland's love interest, who innocently gets tangled in his high-stakes mission against Molloch. Claire is a compassionate and strong woman who wants to seek justice for Molloch's victims. Her portrayal brings an element of human connection and emotional depth to this tumultuous story, forming a compelling contrast to the otherwise dark and intense narrative.

The film is a gripping exploration of human morality, making viewers question the thin line that exists between doing what's right and taking the law into your own hands. It leaves the audience on the edge of their seats as they watch Bronson's character navigate through traps, confrontations, and dangerous situations to complete his mission.

Charles Bronson gives a captivating performance as Holland, embodying the character with a hardened exterior matched by an equally complex interior. His nuanced portrayal ranges from a man haunted by his own past to a relentless terminator when he's on the task. Bronson's rugged charm and subtle emotional depth bring to life a character who is as skilled as he is complex.

Joseph Maher, on the other hand, brilliantly portrays the unarguably villainous Molloch. His chilling performance leaves audiences captivated yet repulsed, effectively embodying the menace his character symbolizes. He theatrically portrays a character that is both deeply unsettling and fascinating at the same time, creating a convincing antagonist.

Theresa Saldana flawlessly plays Claire, Holland's moral anchor and romantic interest, bringing a needed emotional balance to the confluence of dark themes. Her performance is emotionally charged and endearing, providing a counterpoint to the relentless action while adding multidimensional realism to the narrative.

J. Lee Thompson's influential touch as the director is undeniable. Known for previous collaborations with Charles Bronson, Thompson manages to skillfully blend suspense and action, maintaining a fast-paced narrative. Through his sharp visuals and dynamic direction, Thompson takes a stark look at the darkness that lies beneath the facade of orderly society, echoing the film's title, The Evil That Men Do.

Viewers should be aware that due to its politically charged and violent content, the movie may not be suitable for younger audiences. Strong themes and scenes of torture can be confronting for some viewers, but they contribute to creating a stark and memorable cinematic experience.

In closing, The Evil That Men Do stands as a testament to the quintessential '80s action-thriller genre, with Bronson leading the charge in this engaging, suspense-filled film. It's a must-watch for fans of gritty, thought-provoking action cinema, leaving a lasting impact on its audiences with its intense exploration of vigilantism and justice.