La cavale infernale

Stuntman-turned-filmmaker John Stewart created one of the most dangerously high-octane action films of the 80's with "Action U.S.A." A non-stop barrage of daredevil stunts, practical explosions, outlaw gunfights and wild chase sequences. Unfortunately for Stewart, "Action U.S.A." didn't get the appreciation it deserved back when it was released in '89 and slipped under the radar until Vinegar Syndrome rescued it from oblivion. This is a diehard action junkie's wet dream and a real monster truck of a film that has to be seen to be believed.

Opening with "Long After Midnight" by Urban Shocker, a gorgeous blue-coated 1969 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray fires on all cylinders, much like the film is about to. In the first twenty minutes, the audience is treated to a full-on assault to the senses with an insane showcase of vehicular stunt work. The opening chase scene moves from cars to a helicopter and back to cars before inevitably ending in a balls-to-the-wall blaze of glory. "Action U.S.A" may hit its peak in the first twenty minutes but everything that comes after is definitely close enough to matching its level.

With a hackneyed script from David Reskin that's every bit as cliché and forgettable as they come, "Action U.S.A." simply isn't the type of film to watch for the plot. However, considering how much it's lacking in that department, the film bombastically skates by on its pure machismo and action dynamics. The holy trinity of Gregory Scott Cummins, William Hubbard Knight and Barri Murphy are a charming trio to ride this rollercoaster of a film alongside. Ross Hagen, who plays our villainous assassin, steals the show from them as the stoic badass, Drago.

"Action U.S.A." is a violent extravaganza of adrenaline-fueled mayhem, buddy-cop tropes and beefcake heroics. This is a true hidden gem in every sense of the word. It's honestly upsetting that John Stewart didn't have much of a directorial career following this film for his death-defying direction and impeccable focus on stunt work is incredible throughout. The wise will inject "Action U.S.A." directly into their veins with this Texan blend of fun for eternal stimulation. It's recklessness is addictive, endlessly rewatchable and worth the trip every time.

One of the many cheap action movies to come out in the late 1980s and early 1990s. This film is in the territory for MST3K, but despite the hilarious acting, editing, and camerawork, we are treated to a nice series of car chases with over-the-top stunt work. The story-line follows two FBI agents (very Riggs and Murtaugh-esque) assigned to protect a murdered drug dealer's girlfriend from thugs and run into trouble from every direction. With cheesy performances by Cameron Mitchell, Ross Hagen, Hoke Howell, and William Smith (!), you can't go wrong with this.

how do i put this? uhhhhmmmmm.. gee let me think- this movie is BEAUTIFUL!!!! BOOOYAHAHAH! this is clearly the premiere underground b-movie action flick of all time. it is hilarious, explosive, and teeming with quotable dialogue that will have you screaming in your seat! i was squealing myself. the plot alone is funny: this guy named billy ray steals these diamonds from these gangsters and is hunted down by the head honcho's ugly henchmen. billy ray's girlfriend flees after he is shot in one of the funniest death scenes i have ever witnessed. enter cop Clay Osbourne and his Danny Glover-imitation partner, nicknamed Panama (you'll have to wait until the end to find out the meaning behind this moniker). the two veterans take in the girlfriend on a witness protection assignment or something. anyways, what follows is TNT. the trio encounters this cool band of villains, including the menacing Drago and the Chuck Norris-esque Lucky. you won't believe how awesome this movie gets. considerate it a blessing if you ever find this title at your local video store. I own a copy myself, probably one of the only ones in existence. see it at all costs.

"Action U.S.A." is not about the script, it's not about the acting, it's all about the fun factor. With outrageous stunts and quirky dialog, the film delivers definite entertainment value. The story of missing diamonds being pursued by bad guys is so thin it would fit beneath a piece of cardboard. I say ignore the script and concentrate on what's being said. You will be surprised at the clever one liners spewing forth. Stunt work is terrific, with a helicopter flight that is beyond belief. Thespians should avoid "Action U.S.A." like they would a rabid dog. Those seeking a fun film that has action with an attitude should look no further. - MERK

The directing debut of Stuntmen John Stewart shows 90 minutes fast action and nothing else. Greg Cummings plays one of his rare good guy parts, Barri Murphy looks sexy in almost every scene and in supporting roles B-movies stars like William Smith as corrupt FBI-Boss, Ross Hagen and Hoke Howell as killers make this movie a pleasure for B-action-fans.