Looking Back At COMMANDO

Released on October 4, 1985, Commando exploded onto screens with all the intensity and swagger that defined 1980s action cinema. Directed by Mark L. Lester and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger in one of his most iconic roles, the film encapsulates the era's love for larger-than-life heroes, relentless action, and quotable one-liners. Forty years later, Commando remains a benchmark of the genre, celebrated for its unapologetic embrace of excess and its enduring entertainment value.

The plot of Commando is as straightforward as it is effective. Schwarzenegger plays John Matrix, a retired elite commando whose daughter, Jenny (a young Alyssa Milano), is kidnapped by a group of mercenaries. The villains' plan is simple: force Matrix to carry out a political assassination in a fictional South American country, or his daughter dies. Of course, they underestimate the lengths Matrix will go to in order to save her. What follows is a high-octane quest for vengeance that takes Matrix from suburban America to tropical jungles, leaving a trail of destruction in his wake.

The origins of Commando reflect Hollywood’s appetite for action heroes in the wake of Conan the Barbarian and The Terminator, which had firmly established Schwarzenegger as a star. The script, penned by Steven E. de Souza, was tailored to Schwarzenegger’s unique charisma and physicality. It blends a tightly wound rescue narrative with moments of levity, ensuring that the film’s intense action sequences are balanced by its sharp, often absurd humour.

Schwarzenegger’s performance as John Matrix is the heart of Commando. With his towering presence, deadpan delivery, and undeniable charisma, Schwarzenegger embodies the quintessential 1980s action hero. Matrix is a man of few words but limitless determination, capable of dismantling entire armies with his bare hands and a seemingly bottomless arsenal of weapons. His one-liners, including the infamous “I’ll be back, Bennett,” have become part of the cultural lexicon.

The supporting cast adds to the film’s larger-than-life appeal. Vernon Wells delivers an unforgettable performance as Bennett, the chainmail-wearing, scenery-chewing villain whose personal vendetta against Matrix adds a layer of intensity to their final showdown. Rae Dawn Chong provides a refreshing counterbalance as Cindy, an unwitting civilian who becomes Matrix’s reluctant ally. Her comedic timing and grounded performance offer a contrast to the film’s relentless action.

From a technical perspective, Commando is a showcase of 1980s action filmmaking at its peak. The film’s stunts, practical effects, and explosive set pieces are executed with a level of craftsmanship that still impresses. The final act, in which Matrix singlehandedly takes on an entire compound of mercenaries, is a masterclass in over-the-top action choreography. James Horner’s pulsating score amplifies the tension and adrenaline, perfectly complementing the film’s high-energy pacing.

Upon its release, Commando was a commercial success, cementing Schwarzenegger’s status as one of Hollywood’s leading action stars. Critics were divided; some dismissed the film as mindless entertainment, while others praised its self-awareness and unrelenting pace. Over the years, however, it has gained a cult following, celebrated for its unapologetic embrace of action tropes and its influence on the genre.

Revisiting Commando in 2025, it’s impossible not to appreciate its sheer confidence. The film knows exactly what it wants to be—a high-octane thrill ride—and it delivers with unrelenting commitment. Watching it today, you might find yourself drawn to its simplicity. In an era of increasingly complex blockbusters, Commando’s straightforward narrative and raw energy feel refreshingly direct.

The film’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to entertain without pretense. It’s a love letter to the action genre, celebrating its excesses while delivering moments of genuine tension and excitement. Schwarzenegger’s Matrix is a hero for the ages, a figure of unshakable resolve whose feats of strength and ingenuity continue to captivate audiences.

What makes Commando stand out, even after all these years, is its sense of fun. Despite its high body count and intense action, the film never takes itself too seriously. Its humour, whether intentional or unintentional, adds a layer of charm that keeps it from becoming overly grim. Lines like “Let off some steam, Bennett” are delivered with a wink, inviting the audience to revel in the absurdity.

Ultimately, Commando endures because it captures the essence of 1980s action cinema. It’s a film that doesn’t apologise for its bombast or its simplicity, embracing its role as pure escapist entertainment. Looking back at it now, you can’t help but smile at its larger-than-life moments and admire its unapologetic commitment to delivering thrills. Forty years on, Commando is as explosive and entertaining as ever.